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Apricot
Prunus armeniaca · Rosaceae
Tree
Fruit tree flowering in early spring that gives colonies their first major nectar and pollen boost; widely grown in Turkey, notably Malatya.
- Nectar
- Medium
- Pollen
- Good
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Height
- 4-8 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Apricot is among the first fruit trees to flower. Its white to pinkish flowers give both nectar and plenty of pollen, helping the brood nest expand quickly in the colonies. However, as flowering coincides with cool, windy days in most years, bee flight and nectar secretion depend heavily on the weather.
Flowering
From early March to mid-April depending on altitude and region; in a single orchard it lasts about 10-15 days. Late frosts can end flowering overnight.
Honey and pollen
No apricot honey is harvested; the nectar is usually used by the colony for build-up. The pollen is an important spring protein source.
Note for the beekeeper
- Although many varieties are self-fertile, some need cross-pollination; the presence of bees improves fruit set.
- Agree with the grower that no spraying is done during flowering.
- To make use of the early flow, colonies must be wintered strong and with ample stores.