Apricot is one of the most important fruit species in our country and Turkey has an important place in apricot production worldwide. Turkey's climate and soil conditions are extremely favorable for apricot cultivation, and for this reason, there are apricot orchards in many different regions in our country.
Apricot cultivation is generally concentrated in the Southeastern Anatolia Region, especially in provinces such as Malatya, Diyarbakır, Adıyaman and Şanlıurfa. These regions have ideal climatic conditions for apricot production. Apricot trees grow better in regions with hot summers and cold winters and adequate irrigation facilities.
Apricot trees usually bloom in spring and care should be taken to avoid being affected by frosts during this period. For a good apricot orchard, the soil should be fertile, well-drained and rich in organic matter. Also, a sufficient amount of sunlight should reach the apricot trees.
The selection of suitable varieties for apricot cultivation is also very important. Among the most widely grown apricot cultivars in Turkey, there are varieties such as "Kabagıl", "Hacıhaliloğlu", "Şekerpare", "Sarılop", "Hacıhaliloğlu" and "Beyazi". These varieties have different maturation times so that the harvest period can continue over a long period of time.
One of the other important factors to be considered in apricot cultivation is irrigation. Apricot trees should be provided with sufficient water, but over-watering should be avoided. Irrigation is of critical importance, especially during fruit formation. In addition, regular control and control measures should be taken against diseases and pests.
Apricot harvest time usually coincides with the months of July and August. Harvested apricots can be consumed fresh or dried.