Apricot Seedlings

Apricots (Prunus armeniaca) are a highly nutritious and versatile fruit with growing popularity in Kenya. These sweet, tangy fruits are rich in vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, making them a valuable addition to any farm. At Farmers Trend Virtual Agrovet, we provide high-quality apricot seedlings to help Kenyan farmers venture into this lucrative agricultural opportunity.

Favourable Climates for Apricot Farming in Kenya

Apricots thrive in temperate and subtropical climates. They require cold conditions during dormancy to break bud rest and hot, dry weather for ripening. In Kenya, they are best suited to regions with moderate rainfall and distinct dry periods.

Suitable Regions in Kenya for Growing Apricots

Areas with suitable climatic conditions for apricot farming include:

• Central Kenya: Nyeri, Murang’a, and Kirinyaga
• Rift Valley: Nakuru, Eldoret, and Kericho
• Eastern Kenya: Meru and Embu
• Western Kenya: Parts of Bungoma and Kakamega

Soil Requirements for Apricots

Apricots perform best in:

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam soils
• Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
• Nutrients: The soil should be rich in organic matter and free of waterlogging.

Altitude

Apricots thrive at an altitude of 1,200–2,000 meters above sea level. These elevations provide the necessary cool conditions for their optimal growth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Apricots

1. Site Preparation
   • Select a sunny location with good air circulation.
   • Clear the area of weeds and debris.
   • Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels.
2. Hole Preparation
   • Dig planting holes measuring 2 feet wide and 2 feet deep.
   • Mix topsoil with well-decomposed manure or compost at a ratio of 1:1.
3. Planting Seedlings
   • Place the apricot seedling upright in the hole.
   • Ensure the graft union is at least 6 inches above the soil level.
   • Backfill the hole with soil and press firmly to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering
   • Water the seedling immediately after planting and ensure consistent moisture during the first year.
5. Mulching
   • Apply mulch around the base of the seedling to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Caring for Apricot Trees

1. Irrigation
   • Apricots require regular watering during the dry season, especially in the first 2–3 years. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
2. Pruning
   • Prune the tree annually to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the canopy for better air circulation and light penetration.
3. Fertilization
   • Apply well-balanced fertilizers twice a year. Use nitrogen-rich fertilizers during the growing season and potassium-rich fertilizers before flowering.
4. Pest and Disease Control
   • Common pests: Aphids, fruit flies, and caterpillars
   • Common diseases: Powdery mildew, bacterial spot, and gummosis
   • Use integrated pest management (IPM) practices, including biological controls, neem oil sprays, and proper sanitation.
5. Pollination
   • Apricots are self-pollinating but may benefit from cross-pollination for improved yields. Consider planting multiple trees.

Plant Population Per Acre and Recommended Spacing

• Spacing: 5m x 5m (16.5 ft x 16.5 ft)
• Plant Population Per Acre: 160 trees per acre

Expected Production

1. Per Tree:
   • Mature trees produce approximately 100–150 kilograms of apricots per year.
2. Per Acre:
   • Farmers can expect yields of 16,000–24,000 kilograms (16–24 tonnes) per acre annually, depending on tree health and farm management practices.

General Uses of Apricots

1. Nutritional Value:
   • Apricots are consumed fresh or dried and are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
2. Processed Products:
   • Used in making jams, jellies, juices, and apricot oil.
   • Apricot kernels are used for oil extraction and cosmetic products.
3. Medicinal Benefits:
   • Known for their role in improving digestion, boosting skin health, and enhancing vision.

Why Choose Farmers Trend Virtual Agrovet for Apricot Seedlings?

At Farmers Trend Virtual Agrovet, we offer superior-quality apricot seedlings, ensuring:

• Disease resistance
• High yield potential
• Expert guidance on farm management

Our team is here to help you every step of the way, from planting to harvest. Contact us today to start your journey into apricot farming!

Contact Details:

• Phone/WhatsApp: +254724559286 / +254752452939
• Email: info@farmerstrend.co.ke

Embrace the potential of apricot farming and reap the rewards of this profitable crop!