How to Grow Apricot in New Zealand
Apricots want a dry spring to set fruit and crop best in Central Otago, Marlborough and Hawke's Bay where summers are warm and dry. They are marginal in humid northern gardens. Plant bare-root in winter and they are self-fertile, so one tree is enough.
When to plant apricot in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | June, July, August |
| Auckland | June, July, August |
| Waikato & BoP | June, July, August |
| Wellington | June, July, August |
| Nelson & Marlborough | June, July, August |
| Canterbury | June, July, August |
| Otago & Southland | June, July, August |
| Central Otago | June, July, August |
Best apricot varieties for NZ
- Sundrop — Reliable New Zealand-bred apricot, freestone, good fresh and bottled. (Waimea Nurseries)
- Moorpark — Classic richly flavoured apricot, heavy cropper in dry districts. (Waimea Nurseries, garden centres)
- Trevatt — Productive dual-purpose apricot for warm sheltered sites. (Oderings)
How to grow apricot
- Space plants about 400cm apart.
- Sow seed around 30cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 365 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 1 days.
Companion planting
Grow apricot near: Nasturtium, Garlic, Chives, Tansy, Comfrey.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Brown rot, Birds, Leafroller. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Apricot plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant apricot in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in June, July, August. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy apricot seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Waimea Nurseries, garden centres, Oderings.