MOORPARKapricot tree (dwarf rootstock)

🍑 Moorpark

• Name: Prunus armeniaca ‘Moorpark’
• Origin: An old variety that has been cultivated for a long time and is well known among apricot lovers. According to some sources, it was introduced to England in the 18th century.

✅ Advantages of Moorpark

• Fruit taste/quality: rich, sweet, aromatic taste. Very popular fresh, but also good for canning, drying, and jams.

• Good-sized fruit: large or medium-large, golden yellow skin with occasional blush. Juicy flesh with good texture.

• Freestone: the pit comes out fairly easily.

• Self-fertile: does not necessarily depend on another apricot tree to produce fruit, although cross-pollination often increases production.

• Visual flowering: pretty pink/white spring flowers, good ornamental effect.

⚠ Limitations & challenges

• Cold requirement: approximately 600-700 hours below approximately 45°F to satisfy winter dormancy.

• Hardiness zone: typically USDA zones 4-8.

• Late spring frost: although Moorpark is a fairly old variety, it does not seem to be particularly late in flowering to “avoid” all spring frosts. This means that in climates with late frosts or very unstable springs, flowers or buds may be damaged.

• Limited shelf life: The fruit does not keep very long after harvest, especially outside the refrigerator or if transported for long periods. Best used fresh or processed.