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Description
Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot, commonly known as the Tomcot apricot, is a deciduous fruit tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a hybrid between the Chinese and Siberian apricots and was first introduced in the United States in the 1960s. This apricot cultivar is popular for its sweet, juicy, and flavorful fruit that ripens in mid-June to early July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree can grow up to 15-20 feet tall and 15-18 feet wide. It has a rounded shape with a dense canopy of green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The tree blooms in early spring with pinkish-white flowers that are followed by small green fruits. The fruit ripens to a golden-orange color with a red blush on the sunny side. The fruit is medium-sized with a smooth skin and a juicy, sweet flesh.
Care Guide
To care for the Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree, follow these guidelines:Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the fall to prepare the tree for winter.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, and apply again in mid-summer.Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil.Sunlight: The tree needs full sun exposure to produce fruit.Hardiness Zones: The Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Pests: Aphids, mites, fruit tree leafrollers, and peach twig borers.Diseases: Brown rot, bacterial canker, and powdery mildew.To prevent these issues, keep the tree healthy by providing proper care and maintaining good sanitation practices.
Habitat
The Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree is native to central and western Asia and grows well in temperate regions with cool winters and hot summers. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for the Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree to bear fruit?
A: The tree can start to bear fruit in 2-3 years after planting.Q: Can the Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree self-pollinate?
A: No, it requires cross-pollination with another apricot cultivar.Q: How do I prune the Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot tree?
A: Prune the tree in late winter to early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out the canopy to improve air circulation.Q: When is the best time to harvest the Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot fruit?
A: The fruit is ready to harvest when it is fully ripe, and the skin is slightly soft to the touch.
Related Plants
Other apricot cultivars include:
- Prunus Armeniaca Goldcot
- Prunus Armeniaca Harcot
- Prunus Armeniaca Harglow
- Prunus Armeniaca Moorpark
References
- “Apricot.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. https://homeorchard.ucanr.edu/Fruits_&_Nuts/Apricots/.
- “Prunus Armeniaca.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c740.
- “Prunus Armeniaca Tomcot.” Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/82388/.
