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Can You Grow Apricot in California?

US · USDA Zone 9b · zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Won't grow here

Apricots bloom very early and can lose the crop to late frosts in cold or unpredictable springs.

Plant zones

4a–9a

California last frost

mid-January

California first frost

late December

Days to harvest

2–5 years

About Apricot

Apricots are among the earliest stone fruits to bloom and ripen — fragrant, golden, and self-fertile, but the early blooms make them vulnerable to late frosts.

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun, ideally against a warm wall. Thin fruit heavily for size. Harvest when soft and fragrant; apricots ripen fast.

Full apricot growing guide →

Gardening in California

California spans more climate zones than any other state. Coastal regions are mild year-round; the Central Valley is hot and productive; mountains are cold; deserts are extreme.

See what grows well in California →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Apricot in California?

Apricots bloom very early and can lose the crop to late frosts in cold or unpredictable springs.

What zone is California?

California spans USDA Zone 9b (5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b).

When do you plant Apricots in California?

See the planting guide for Apricot — timing depends on your exact frost date.