Hey folks, I recently had some apricot preserves that we got from a local store, and I really liked it- really tangy, but also sweet. So, of course, I was considering some apricot trees to my other tree purchases for this spring.
We live in NE KY, in the foothills, but our farm is on an east facing slope that gets lots of morn and afternoon sun. We are not down in the bottoms of the valley, which can be a place for more cold air pooling as opposed to where we’re at. Our zone is 6b.
I did a bit of research on growing 'cots in Kentucky, and some sources claim they are not a fruit that does so well here, mostly because of its early blooming habits don’t jibe well with our late spring frosts/freezes.
Peaches/nectarines can be grown here, but are still subjected to the same freeze issues. Getting those fruit around here is a hit and miss affair over the years because of this. At any rate, are 'cots that much more sensitive than these two stone fruits?
If we can grow them, there are a few varieties that folks like, and I was wondering how they do in these parts. Any comments on these: Tomcot, Moorpark, Westcot, Harogem, Hargrand (or any other if the Harrow types), Moongold.
Also, what rootstock would be a good fit for our area? Our soil is a nice loam, not too much clay or sand, with a few rocks, depending on the location on the farm. It drains pretty well, but there have been times when water does pool a bit, but that’s after long periods of rain over many days. I read about Marianna, Myrobalan or peach rootstocks being used for 'cots, so which would be best for our soil? The UK ag site says Citation and Nemaguard are not recommended for Kentucky.
Also, while we’re talking about stone fruits, which rootstock would be best for some tart cherries for here? I don’t think Mahaleb would work here as it doesn’t like wet feet. Wouldn’t Mazzard or a Gisela work better for us?
Thanks for the replies.