Description
Puget Gold apricot was selected specifically for growers in the Pacific Northwest, where cool, wet springs can make apricot production challenging. Unlike many older varieties that struggle with inconsistent bloom and fruit set, Puget Gold offers improved reliability while still delivering high-quality fruit.
The fruit ripens to a warm golden-orange with a rich, classic apricot flavor well suited to fresh eating, preserves, and drying. Puget Gold balances sweetness and acidity beautifully, making it a favorite for home growers who want dependable crops without sacrificing flavor.
The tree grows with moderate vigor and responds well to pruning, allowing it to be maintained at a manageable size. For growers in maritime or cool-spring climates, Puget Gold is often one of the most successful apricots available.
Overview
- Apricot selected for Pacific Northwest conditions.
- Golden-orange fruit with excellent flavor.
- Improved reliability in cool, wet springs.
- Excellent for fresh eating, drying, and preserves.
- Self-fertile.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Prunus armeniaca ‘Puget Gold’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil essential
Rootstock: Marianna 2624
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–8
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically 12–15 ft tall and wide (maintained smaller with pruning)
Bloom Time: Mid-spring
Ripening Time: Early to mid-summer
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Pests & Diseases: Improved tolerance for cool, wet climates; good airflow and drainage reduce issues
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Puget Gold was selected specifically for Pacific Northwest conditions and consistently outperforms standard apricots in cool, wet springs.
- Regional Insight: Puget Gold excels in maritime and cool-spring climates where spring moisture limits fruit set on many apricots.
- Fruit benefits from being harvested slightly firm and finished indoors to develop full sweetness.
- A strong choice for fresh eating, preserves, and drying in cooler climates.
- Explore more apricot varieties in our collection: Apricot Trees
