Question: how to take care for japanese apricot?

Answer: The Japanese Apricot Tree (Ume) is generally speaking a low-maintenance tree. Therefore simple general care is recommended.

If you are buying and planting a dormant, bare root tree dig a hole twice the width of the roots and just as deep.  Place the tree and back fill the soil, watering as you go to settle out any air pockets.

You will not need to water again until there are leaves on the tree.  Over-watering when the tree does not need it can prevent root formation and harm the tree.  Apricot/plum roots are durable and can handle a soil pH range of 5 to 7.5 and a soil profile of sandy loam to some clay.

Prune the branches to the basic structure you want for the future.  Remember, when pruning apricots, the fruit comes on the second year wood so do not prune off new growth until after it fruits the second year.  Trees will reach a 15 to 20 foot height and width.

Apricots are pretty hardy trees and can handle a wide range of climates.  The biggest area of risk comes with the early bloom.  Apricots bloom early in the year and are at risk of losing your crop if heavy frosts come at an inopportune time.  As a side benefit, the blooming period is very attractive.

We offer four varieties which may be of interest: Ume Apricot Selections