Delicious apricots enjoy a high reputation throughout Germany. Despite innovative breeds, they are mainly cultivated in mild wine regions. We report on current developments and distribution.

Southwest cultivation areas

From behind the Alps to the Rhine area, the cultivation of the sweet temptations brings impressive results. A rich harvest harmonises with high-quality fruit. These are characterized by their appearance and a tasty pulp.

Adverse conditions dominate

In contrast to the main growing areas such as Turkey, South Africa, Spain or France, natural phenomena such as storms, hail, rain and diseases have a significant impact on apricot cultivation in Germany. The warmth-loving fruits often end up in a dream of apricot lovers.

In addition, there are incalculable risk factors due to late frosts. This mainly affects apricot varieties with early flowering in April. Although some of the trees are very frost hardy during the hibernation, they react sensitively in spring. Damage to wood and bark is now part of everyday life. News reports keep reporting about the failure of the apricot harvest due to severe frosts. The cultivation proves to be uneconomical.

Climatic advantages of the wine-growing regions:

  • air dryness
  • high temperatures

Regional apricot trade

The resulting yield uncertainty limits apricots to a niche crop. This enjoys a high reputation primarily in regional markets. On small areas, the cultivation takes place exclusively for direct marketing.

Sober outlook

On a scientific level, experts are testing new methods of flower thinning. These should prevent the unfavorable overhang of the high-yield harvest years. The focus is also on new varieties. Since these are often no longer self-pollinating, this procedure ends in complex contexts, since suitable pollinating insects and pollinating species have to be integrated into the overall concept. Nevertheless, nothing will change in the long term in terms of cultivation volume for German gourmets.

tips and tricks

With optimal site conditions, you can also harvest delicious apricots in your own garden.

FT

Category:

Trees