Wild apricot (Dovyalis caffra)

Also known as: Kei apple, American gooseberry, African peach

To create a natural barrier around your property using wild apricot trees, follow these steps:

1. **Tree Selection**: Opt for native wild apricot saplings that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions.

2. **Planting Plan**: Space the saplings 10-15 feet apart to ensure they grow together into a continuous barrier while allowing enough room for healthy development.

3. **Soil Preparation**: Prepare the planting area by tilling the soil and incorporating organic matter like compost to enhance soil fertility.

4. **Planting Process**: Dig holes that are twice as wide and as deep as the root balls of the saplings. Place the saplings into the holes, backfill with soil, and water them thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

5. **Irrigation**: Water the young trees regularly, particularly during the initial years, to help them establish strong root systems.

6. **Pruning and Shaping**: Regularly prune the trees to maintain a dense, bushy growth that will effectively serve as a barrier.

7. **Maintenance**: Apply mulch around the base of the trees to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, taking action as necessary to keep the trees healthy.

Additionally, be aware that wild apricot fruits are quite acidic and not typically eaten raw. They require preparation before consumption. Avoid letting the fruits ferment for too long, as the fermentation liquid can have herbicidal properties and may be toxic.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Wild apricot

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

2.5 m to 8 m

Spread

3 m

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Green

Images of Wild apricot

Quickly Identify Wild apricot

Identify Dovyalis caffra by its dense, thorny branches and lobed, glossy green leaves. The fruit is small, round, and yellow to orange when ripe, resembling small apples or peaches. The flowers are small, greenish-white, and usually inconspicuous.

Scientific Classification of Wild apricot

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Willow

Genus

Dovyalis

Species

Wild apricot

Planting and Growing of Wild apricot

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-80℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Wild apricot?

For Dovyalis caffra, ensure thorough watering such that the soil is evenly moistened without water logging. The ideal watering practice should give about 1000 milliliters per session, allowing the topsoil to dry out before the next watering.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Wild apricot? ›

What should I do if my Wild apricot is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Wild apricot? ›

How to save an overwatered Wild apricot? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Wild apricot?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Dovyalis caffra thrives best in full to partial sunlight environments, with 6 to 8 hours daily. Adequate sun exposure ensures healthy growth, vibrant foliage, and fruitful yields, reflecting its natural South African habitat.

What kind of sunlight does Dovyalis caffra prefer? ›

What is the best way to provide optimal light for Dovyalis caffra? ›

What benefits does ideal light bring to Dovyalis caffra? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Wild apricot?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 80℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Dovyalis caffra is between 60°F and 80°F. This range facilitates optimal growth and fruit production. At these temperatures, the plant can efficiently perform photosynthesis and maintain cellular functions without stress. Ensuring consistent temperatures within this range can help the plant thrive both indoors and outdoors in temperate regions.

What Soil is Best for Wild apricot?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Dovyalis caffra thrives best in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. This condition ensures that the roots have enough oxygen, thereby reducing the risk of root rot and promoting healthy growth. Rich in organic matter, the soil should supply essential nutrients to support the plant's vigorous growth. Adding compost can enhance the soil quality and contribute to the plant's fruit-bearing capability. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should also retain adequate moisture. Balanced moisture levels support the plant's metabolic processes and ensure sustained hydration, particularly during dry spells.

How to Fertilize Wild apricot?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Dovyalis caffra, an appropriate fertilization approach involves applying a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. For liquid fertilizers, use 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, whereas for slow-release granules, apply at a rate of 2-3 ounces per square foot, depending on the plant's size and growth stage.

How to Prune Wild apricot?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Wear gloves and protective clothing as Dovyalis caffra has thorny branches. This will prevent injuries as you navigate through the plant during the pruning process. Sanitize your tools between cuts and different plants to prevent the spread of disease. A simple solution of water and bleach can be used for cleaning between cuts. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Wild apricot plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from ripe Dovyalis caffra fruits in late spring. Clean them thoroughly to remove any pulp and allow them to dry in a shaded area.

Select healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings from mature plants. Each cutting should be around 15-20 cm in length with several nodes.

For grafting, select compatible rootstock and scion. Make precise cuts to ensure a successful union, and secure them with grafting tape.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Wild apricot plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting Dovyalis caffra is necessary when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, the soil drying out much faster than usual, or reduced growth. These are clear indicators that the plant has outgrown its current pot and needs a larger space to flourish. The timing for repotting should ideally be in the Spring or Summer when the plant is in its active growth phase, allowing it to recover and adapt quickly.

When selecting a pot for your Kei Apple, ensure it is one size larger than the current one and has excellent drainage capabilities. A pot with adequate drainage holes prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Additionally, the pot should be made of breathable material like clay to encourage healthy root growth by allowing excess moisture to escape and air to circulate, promoting a robust and healthy plant.

For Dovyalis caffra, a well-draining, sandy loam soil is ideal. This type of soil encourages proper drainage while retaining enough moisture necessary for the plant's growth. A sandy loam composition ensures the roots do not sit in water, thus reducing the risk of root rot and allowing for nutrient-rich and aerated conditions that contribute to vigorous root and foliage development.