Spacings of about 20-24 ft are common. It is basically a tall, shallow-mantled open center tree. Apricots can be pruned fairly heavily, since they bear too many fruits and are vigorous. Generally, most new growth and interfering wood is removed each year, exposing the spurs to maximal sunlight. E. Backyard considerations .
Apricots grow very poorly in the southeast.
Cropping is extremely rare due to frost, and trees succumb to diseases before long. If you were to try, follow the guidelines for plums. Harvest, post-harvest handling. Apricots for fresh consumption are picked firm-mature, since they are far too soft for shipping if allowed to approach ripening on the tree. It is said that proper flavor never develops in fruit picked prior to physiological maturity.