This is a Moorpark tree I planted last year. It did not grow vigorously compared to others, but this is on Myro 29C rootstock which I assumed would be less vigorous than the ones on Citation. I see gum oozing from the new branch collars. I do read that this is common in Apricots, but it is amber in color which makes me doubt if this is canker. If it is, should I prune the top part so the buds down may wake up this year?
I think you need to cut infected area soon before sap flow starts as tree comes out of dormancy. Bacteria will travel downward. Also rain splash will spread it. You can expose bark and cut all area with amber streaks.
Practically, I would buy a new tree and use this one as rootstock after cutting low enough to make sure no infection. Moorpark worth it to have a healthy tree. Payless Nursery in SJ usually has it. And I know Regan Nursery in Fremont have nice ones this week (3/4" stem with fruiting branches for $49.99).
1 Like
It’s not just gum but also the blackened areas on the bark. I would cut a few inches below the affected area. New buds will push in the spring and new scaffolds will form. I think the existing scaffolds are too close to each other vertically anyway, so it’s not a big loss to remove them. Disinfect the bark at the location where you will be cutting before and after you cut.
4 Likes
BTW, an apricot tree on Myro 29C will be more vigorous than one on Citation. The first year is not a good indicator since some trees take more time to overcome the replant shock and establish than others.
3 Likes
Yes, that’s right. I meant Citation trees were vigorous in the first year compared to Lovell or Myro counterparts.
I lopped off the top and sealed the wound and taped up the top with parafilm. Unfortunately, I didn’t have copper spray to disinfect but I did see fresh wood 3” below where I made the cut.
@CA-Orchard I’ll replace the tree if it doesn’t grow well in Spring
1 Like