Apricot Goldcot

American-bred, and adapted to colder, wetter climates, Prunus armeniaca Goldcot produces fairly large, golden-orange fruit which ripen in early August. Grown on a semi-dwarfing rootstock, it makes a small, deciduous tree which crops reliably and heavily if planted in a warm, sheltered position. Apricots flower early and blossom may need protection from frost; it’s also a time when few pollinators are flying, so they may need pollinating with a soft paint-brush. Apricot Goldcot is best grown fan-trained on a warm wall or in a large container in a polytunnel, although it will benefit from being kept outdoors in the summer months. Frost- and disease-resistant, Goldcot is one of the best apricots for our climate, with an average flavour which is greatly improved by cooking. Feed with potash-rich fertiliser and prune only in summer.

Site: Sheltered and warm
Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained, slightly acid to slightly alkaline soil
Position: Full sun
Pick: Early August
Keep: One week
Pollination: Self-fertile
Uses: Eating, cooking and preserving