Apricots are a healthy, tasty fruit that are rich in beta-carotene, fiber and vitamin C. Apricot trees are sensitive to climate changes and typically do best in areas where sweet cherries thrive, including certain parts of Michigan. There are some apricot varieties that are best for eating fresh, such as Goldcot, while others are better for cooking, like Early Golden Hardy Iowa.

Consider adding apricots to your store, whether in the form of fresh apricots, dried apricots, apricot preserves or apricot juice. You can even grow your own apricot trees. Before adding apricots to your product lineup, consider the following:

1. Do you have a market for fresh apricots from local or international suppliers?

2. Would you consider adding dried apricots or other apricot products to your store?

3. Do you live in an area where you could grow your own apricots trees?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out fresh products from apricot growers and distributors

There are a variety of apricot producers that distribute to all areas of the United States. Be aware of the apricot harvesting season for each of the apricot producers so you can know when to start marketing your apricots.

I recommend: Singer Farms focuses on Hargrand apricots, a large, juice variety that is typically harvested in August. Bremmer’s Farm offers fresh apricots in addition to apricot jam, apricot brownies and other apricot treats.

Find manufacturers of dried apricots and other apricot products

Dried apricots are an excellent source of vitamin A, iron and calcium. They are delicious when eaten on their own or incorporated in desserts and other recipes.

I recommend: Apricot King Orchards offers dried organic apricots that are low in sulphur. The Apricot Farm is another great source for dried apricots. The company even offers chocolate-covered apricots and delicious dried fruit mixes. Local Harvest offers a apricot jam that is made with Blenheim apricots and very little sugar. B&R Farms has a wide variety of specialty apricot products, including apricot preserves, dried apricot toppings and chocolate-covered dried apricots.

Grow your own apricot trees

Apricot trees can be found in local nurseries, depending on your location, or online. Rather than starting your venture with apricot seeds, you'll likely buy an apricot tree from reputable nurseries. Most trees need a combination of well-drained soil and frost-free spring seasons.

I recommend: Nature Hills Nursery has two varieties of apricot trees for sale: Tilton and Tomcot. Adams County Nursery is another great source for apricot trees, featuring such types as Early Blush, Goldrich and Harogem.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Order a small quantity of apricots or apricot products as your first shipment. You want to be sure customers are interested in the product before you invest too much money into it.