WESTCOT apricot SEMI-DWARF (MUSTANG)

Origin and general characteristics

• ‘Westcot’ is a hardy apricot variety created at the Morden Research Station (Manitoba, Canada) and introduced in 1982.

• It is a cross between the Scout and McClure varieties, two apricot trees renowned for their hardiness.

Hardiness and climate adaptation

• Very hardy: resistant to very low winter temperatures. Some sources indicate that it can tolerate temperatures as low as -48°F (≈ -44 to -45°C).

• Hardiness zones: often listed as zone 2 or 3 according to catalogs, or at least zone 3 according to others.

• Fairly early or “moderately early” flowering, which presents the risk of the flowers being affected by late spring frosts.

Fruit/fruit quality

• Medium to large fruit, golden yellow in color with a nice red/orange blush on the sunny side.

• Flesh: freestone (stone comes away easily); firm but juicy flesh, good sweet flavor, suitable for fresh consumption as well as canning or processing.

• Flavor: sweet, sugar content around 18° Brix in some descriptions.

Ripening/harvest period

• Harvest: late July to early August in warmer regions. Some sources say “midsummer” or “mid-July” for more southern areas.

• Some more northern catalogs give “late July/early August” or “mid-August” as the ripening time in their climates.

Size, habit & cultivation

• Mature height: up to approximately 4-6 m (≈ 12-20 ft) depending on conditions, if not severely pruned.

• Habit: rounded or spreading shape depending on pruning and pruning practices. May require some training to balance the canopy.

Pollination & fertility

• Self-fertile according to some sources (i.e., it can produce fruit even without another variety), but production is better if a pollinator is present.

• Note: even though it is self-fertile, it is recommended to plant another variety that flowers at a similar time to improve fruit set (fruit formation).

Advantages

• Here are the advantages of Westcot, particularly in cold regions or areas with harsh climates:

• Excellent hardiness: one of the best for very cold winters.

• Good quality fruit—fairly sweet, suitable for fresh consumption, canning, etc.

• Good productivity in good years.

• Relatively resistant to winter damage, fairly robust flower buds.

Limitations/points to consider

• Early flowering: high risk of spring frosts damaging the flowers, which can seriously compromise the harvest. Finding a well-sheltered location or favorable microclimate helps.

• Large tree if not pruned, so space must be allowed for.

• Even if declared self-fertile, as with many apricot trees in harsh climates, yield can fluctuate depending on temperature, care, etc.

• Soil must be well-drained; no waterlogging, no stagnant moisture. Full sun exposure helps a lot.