Q. I bought an apricot two years ago. We were advised to plant the graft part facing north. Most of the branches point south, and we're afraid that if we have a good crop next summer it would be too heavy for the branches. I would like to know if we could prune the branches before this happens. A. Grafts are placed facing north so that they do not get sunburned, says UC master gardener Carol Bowden.
Sunburn increases the chance of pest and disease problems.
That placement will not affect the ultimate growth of a tree. A minimum of six hours per day is preferred. To obtain appropriate shape and height, pruning during the first couple of years is important. The cooperative extension recommends avoiding fungus disease by pruning apricots late in the dormant season or preferably during the summer. Pruning is necessary to enhance fruit production, keep fruit reachable and the tree healthy.