HAROSTAR apricot

Origin, name, and classification

• ‘Harostar’ is also known as HW 436.

• It is a variety from the “Harrow” series (Harrow Experimental Station, Ontario, Canada), developed for colder regions.

Fruit characteristics

• Fairly large fruit.

• Color: orange background with a nice red blush, especially on the sunny side.

• Flesh: firm, sweet, freestone (the pit comes out fairly easily).

• Taste: pleasant, average to good, often used fresh, but also for cooking or freezing.

Ripening/harvest period

• Ripens about 10 days after the Harcot variety.

• In Ontario, in typical regions, Harostar is harvested in early August.

Growing conditions & hardiness

• Hardiness zone: zones 4 to 8 according to several sources. This means that it tolerates fairly harsh winters, down to fairly low temperatures.

• Soil: prefers well-drained soil that is not too wet. Soil amendment is beneficial if the soil is poor. Full sun.

• Growth: medium-sized tree, mature height around 4-5 meters, spread also around 4-5 meters.

Resistance and weaknesses

• Advantages/resistance:

• Good resistance to certain disease problems, including bacterial spot, brown rot, and skin cracks.

• More hardy than some cultivars such as Veecot.

Points to watch / limitations:

• Even though the variety is self-fertile (i.e., capable of producing on its own), productivity will be better if pollinated by another suitable cultivar.

• Possible sensitivity to spring frosts (but less so than with less late cultivars). Location is very important.