Discovered at 6,000 ft elevation near Montrose, CO. This is a late blooming, hardy tree with good disease resistance, and is self-fruitful. Produces yellow, sweet, flavorful, egg sized apricots that are semi freestone. Montrose Apricot deserves wide testing in Northern areas where it is likely to be best adapted. Late summer ripening due to its late blooming. Zone 5-9.
ZONE: 5-9
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Late blooming. Self-fruitful but benefits greatly from having another variety nearby.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Needs hot, full sun and regular water in summer, low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring. Reduce grass competition in root zone. Top dress with compost yearly. General pruning to control size and form, then to remove old branches that no longer fruit. ONLY prune during dry days to prevent fungal rots. Late season ripening.
CHILL HOURS: 700-1000 chill hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Susceptible to fungal problems if location is not hot enough.
SIZE AT MATURITY: Dwarf - 8' x 12'| Semi Dwarf – 10-16' x 15'| Standard – 20' x 20'