When Do Apricot Trees Leaf-out in Southern California?

Apricot trees leaf-out after the blossoms are gone.

California growers provide most of the apricots consumed in the United States. The climate in Southern California is ideal for growing apricot trees, which require mild winters to survive.

Blooms

Apricot trees bloom in February and early March in Southern California with small, five-petaled white flowers tinged with red. After the blossoms drop, the leaves of the apricot grow, generally in mid-March. The leaves will experience rapid growth during this time.

Leaf Description

The leaves of the apricot are dark green, broad and round, with a pointed apex. They have a finely serrated margin. The petiole is approximately 1/2 inch to 1 inch long, and is tinged with red.

Disease

Examine the leaves during the leafing-out period for signs of disease, such as shot hole disease, which causes spots to form on the leaves, and powdery mildew, which appears as a web-like, white growth. Take measures to treat the tree, if necessary.

References

• University of California: Apricot
• Univeristy of California IPM: Apricot
• U.S. Department of Agriculture: Apricots! Delectable Fruits of California Research
• Botanical.com: Apricot