This later group is the youngest in origin, the least variable and is virtually the only type known in the western world. Climatic requirement World production occurs generally in two broad bands between about 25 and 45 latitude, often in association with peaches, nectarines and plums. However, apricots are not as climatically adaptable as other stone fruits. Individual varieties which grow well in one area often do not perform in other apricot production districts. Apricots require a warm Mediterranean climate, needing cool to cold winters to break dormancy and warm to hot dry summers to mature fruit with minimal disease problems.
Fruit is subject to cracking in wet or humid weather.
Apricot trees flower early, exposing them to damage from spring frosts in many of the areas they are grown. Soil requirement Apricots grown on apricot rootstock require well drained soils. Apricots seem well adapted to soils of around pH 6-8. The species is fairly tolerant of alkaline conditions but is very sensitive to high salt levels in the soil. The tree The apricot tree is deciduous and grows to a height of 10-15 metres.