Apricot Tree
(Prunus armeniaca)
Apricot trees are prized for early spring blooms and sweet fruit, but they can be challenging in Colorado due to late freezes, canker diseases, borers, and fungal leaf issues. They perform best with good airflow, proper pruning, and consistent irrigation.
Seasonal Pest & Disease Calendar
| Problem | Type | Active Season |
|---|---|---|
| Cytospora canker | Fungus | Spring–Fall |
| Brown rot | Fungus | Spring–Summer |
| Peach twig borer | Insect | Spring–Summer |
| Aphids | Insect | Spring–Fall |
| Spider mites | Mite | Summer |
| Shot hole disease | Fungus/Bacteria | Spring–Summer |
| Freeze injury / fruit loss | Abiotic | Late Winter–Spring |
Pest & Disease Guide (Homeowner-Friendly)
Cytospora Canker
Common symptoms- Sunken bark patches
- Amber gum oozing
- Branch dieback
- Prune infected limbs
- Sanitize tools
- Reduce drought stress
Brown Rot
Common symptoms- Blossom blight
- Rotting fruit
- Gray fungal growth
- Remove infected fruit
- Improve airflow
- Fungicide if recurring
Peach Twig Borer
Common symptoms- Flagging shoot tips
- Worms in fruit or shoots
- Prune out damaged shoots
- Timed treatment if severe
Aphids
Common symptoms- Leaf curling
- Sticky honeydew
- Rinse foliage
- Encourage beneficial insects
Spider Mites
Common symptoms- Speckled leaves
- Bronzing
- Increase irrigation
- Rinse canopy
Shot Hole Disease
Common symptoms- Small holes in leaves
- Purple-brown spotting
- Clean up leaves
- Avoid overhead watering
Freeze Injury
Common symptoms- Lost blossoms
- Poor fruit set
- Dead young shoots
- Plant in protected sites
- Prune after frost risk
When to Worry vs. When It’s Cosmetic
When to Worry (action recommended)
- Spreading cankers
- Heavy fruit rot
- Repeated shoot dieback
- Major crop loss year after year
These issues can seriously reduce tree health and fruit production.
Mostly Cosmetic (monitor only)
- Minor leaf spotting
- Light aphid activity
- Occasional mite damage
These often improve with pruning, sanitation, and regular watering.