Apricot Seed Extraction and Stratification: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting the Seed Out of the Pit

Use a nutcracker to carefully crack the hard apricot pit without damaging the almond-shaped seed inside. Patience is key—apply slow, even pressure.

Breaking Dormancy: Cold Stratification

Apricot seeds require a cold period to germinate. Two methods:

1. Refrigerator stratification: Soak seeds 2 days in lukewarm water. Place in damp paper towel, seal in plastic bag, refrigerate 90 days. Then plant 1/2 inch deep in potting soil; keep warm (70°F) and moist. Germination in ~30 days.
2. Outdoor fall planting: Plant seeds 1 inch deep in prepared bed in autumn. Winter cold naturally stratifies them; seedlings emerge in spring after last frost.

Seedling Care

• Transplant to individual pots when seedlings have several true leaves.
• Grow in full sun, well-drained soil.
• Protect young trees from rodents and harsh winds.
• Expect 3–5 years to fruiting; seed-grown trees may not match parent variety.

Apricots from seed are a fun project, but for reliable fruit quality, consider grafted trees from a nursery.