How to Harvest Apricots for Best Flavor

Harvesting Apricots

Apricots are best harvested fully ripe on the tree. They do not sweeten significantly after picking, so timing is important for the best flavor.

Wait for full color.
Apricots should develop their full golden-orange color for the variety. Any green tint means the fruit is not yet ripe.
Check for softness.
Ripe apricots yield slightly to gentle pressure. They should feel soft but still firm enough to hold their shape.
Smell for sweetness.
A ripe apricot has a sweet, fruity aroma. Lack of fragrance usually indicates it needs more time.
Taste test if unsure.
If possible, taste one. Apricots should be sweet and juicy when ready.
Harvest during dry conditions.
Pick apricots on a dry day to improve storage quality and reduce the risk of splitting.
Twist gently to remove.
Lift and twist slightly. Ripe apricots should detach easily from the branch.
Harvest promptly.
Apricots ripen quickly and can become soft very fast. Check trees daily as harvest approaches.
Store properly after harvesting.
Store ripe apricots in the refrigerator and use within a few days. Slightly underripe fruit can finish softening at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions

When should I harvest apricots?

Apricots are best harvested when fully ripe on the tree, showing a full golden-orange color and a sweet, fruity aroma.

How can I tell if an apricot is ripe?

Ripe apricots will have a full golden-orange color, feel soft yet firm to gentle pressure, and emit a sweet, fruity fragrance.

Do apricots continue to ripen after being picked?

Apricots do not sweeten significantly after picking, but slightly underripe fruit can finish softening at room temperature.

What is the best way to pick an apricot from the tree?

Gently lift the apricot and twist it slightly; ripe apricots should detach easily from the branch.

How should I store fresh apricots?

Store ripe apricots in the refrigerator and use them within a few days to maintain freshness.

How to Harvest Apricots

Wait for the apricots to develop their full golden-orange color.

Check if the apricots yield slightly to gentle pressure, feeling soft but still firm.

Smell for a sweet, fruity aroma coming from the apricots.

Taste an apricot if you are unsure about its ripeness; it should be sweet and juicy.

Pick apricots on a dry day to improve storage quality and reduce splitting.

Lift and twist the apricot gently to remove it from the branch; ripe fruit detaches easily.

Harvest promptly, checking trees daily as apricots ripen quickly.

Store ripe apricots in the refrigerator or let slightly underripe fruit soften at room temperature.