Apricot

Moorpark Pollination Guide

Moorpark is self-fertile — a single tree will produce fruit without a pollination partner.

Self-Fertile

You don't need a second tree to get fruit from Moorpark. It can pollinate itself. That said, having a compatible variety nearby can sometimes improve fruit set and yield through cross-pollination.

Moorpark Quick Facts

Chill Hours

600 hours

Hardiness Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Harvest

July to August

Pollination Note

Most apricots are self-fertile but yield improves with a second variety

Planning Your Orchard

Moorpark is self-fertile, so a single tree will produce fruit. However, stone fruit trees benefit from good pollinator activity — encourage bees by planting flowering herbs and avoiding pesticide sprays during bloom. Space trees 15–20 feet apart, or 8–10 feet for dwarf varieties.

Keep a record of every tree you plant — variety, rootstock, location.

Start your free tree log →

Most people forget within a year.

Which pairs fruited well, what bloomed when, what you did each season — write it down from the start.

Keep a free orchard log

Free for up to 30 plants. No card needed.

About Moorpark

Moorpark is the gold standard for apricot flavor — large, intensely aromatic fruit with deep orange flesh and a rich, complex sweetness. It's been the benchmark variety since the 1600s.

Growing Challenges

Blooms very early, making frost damage the #1 crop killer; susceptible to brown rot and bacterial canker.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close does a pollinator need to be to Moorpark?

For reliable pollination, plant the partner variety within 50–100 feet of Moorpark. Bees are the primary pollinators and typically work within this range. In practice, a tree in your yard or even a neighbor's nearby tree can work. The closer the trees, the more consistent the fruit set.

Can I grow just one Moorpark tree?

Yes! Moorpark is self-fertile and will produce fruit as a single tree. You don't need a second tree, though having one nearby can sometimes improve yield.

Other Apricot Varieties

Related Tools

Pollination data compiled from university extension services, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) pollination group charts, RosBREED cherry S-allele research, and nursery compatibility guides. Pollination compatibility can vary by region and microclimate. For best results, consult your local extension office.