I have an apricot tree in a pot. What can I do to keep it healthy and alive over the winter?
Answer
Dear Gardener: Your tree's leaves are probably starting to wither because it is fall. I don't think you have a worry there!
Apricot trees (Prunus armeniaca) are generally hardy to Zone 6 (-10 to 0). However, if you have the flowering Japanese Apricot, (Prunus mume), it is hardy only to Zone 7 (+10 to 0). I don't know what zone of hardiness Phoenicia is. If you are colder than the zones of hardiness for your tree, keep the tree in its pot and keep in a garage. It will be dormant, so it does not need light. If possible, keep it against a house wall, if the garage is attached. That wall will help to keep the plant a little warmer. If the garage is not attached, keep the plant in the garage, but wrap it in burlap. That will help keep it protected. If your zone of hardiness is within the limits of your tree, the best would be to plant it in the ground. If you cannot plant the tree and it is hardy in your area, keep it in a protected corner of your property and remember to keep it watered.