Apricots
Introduction
Varieties
Although still susceptible to spring frost, many varieties have been especially bred for the southern Ontario climate. These include Harcot, Harglow, Hargrand, Harlayne, Harogem, and Harval from Harrow and Veecot, Velvaglo and Vivagold from Vineland.
Nutrition
An excellent source of beta-carotene, Vitamin C and potassium. However, while the fruit can be safely cooked intact, the kernels of most North American varieties can be extremely bitter and generally should not be eaten.
History
A temperamental plant, apricots need a dry climate in which to thrive. They grow wild in the mountains of north-western China and central Asia and have probably been cultivated for at least 5,000 years.
Apricots flourished in ancient Rome and the Moors also established them in Spain. King Henry VIII's gardener imported them to England in the 1500's and grew them in protected walled gardens.
Apricots were probably introduced to North America by the Franciscan brothers in California some 200-300 years ago.
