Don’t throw away apricot pits: here’s how you can reuse them

Apricots are among the most loved and appreciated fruits, and many other preparations can be made with them, such as desserts or jams. Usually, however, we throw away their stones, even if in reality they are very precious.

For example, planting an apricot sapling from a pit is a rewarding activity that even novice gardeners can do. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it.

Step 1: Preparation of the kernel

1. Stone Extraction: After enjoying a juicy apricot, clean the stone by removing all remaining pulp. You can do this by washing it under running water.
2. Drying: Leave the stone to dry in a cool, dry place for a few days. This will help prevent mold growth.

Step 2: Cold Layering

1. Opening the Kernel: Using a nutcracker or hammer, gently open the kernel to extract the internal seed, being careful not to damage it.
2. Layering: To simulate winter, place the seed in a plastic bag with some moistened sand or peat moss. Close the bag and place it in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks. This process is essential for breaking seed dormancy.

Step 3: Plant the seed

1. Preparing the Pot: After the stratification period, fill a pot with well-drained potting soil. You can use a mix for fruit plants or create a mixture with all-purpose potting soil and sand.
2. Sowing: Plant the seed about 5 cm deep and cover it with soil. Water lightly to keep the soil moist but not too wet.
3. Position: Place the vase in a sunny, warm place, with an ideal temperature of around 20-25°C.

Step 4: Care of the sprout

1. Watering: Keep the soil constantly moist, but avoid stagnant water which could cause the seed to rot.
2. Growth: After a few weeks, you should see the first signs of sprouting. Continue caring for the small tree by ensuring it receives sufficient sunlight.

Step 5: transplant

1. Planting Site Preparation: Once the small sapling has reached a size of around 30cm and the season is favorable (preferably spring), choose a location in the garden with well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
2. Transplant: Dig a hole large enough to hold the roots of your sapling. Carefully remove the sapling from the pot, plant it in the hole and fill with soil, tamping it lightly.
3. Post-Transplant Care: Water abundantly after transplanting and continue to monitor soil moisture, especially in the first few months.

Other uses of apricot kernels

In addition to planting, apricot kernels have several other interesting uses:

1. Apricot kernel oil: The seeds can be pressed to obtain a light, nourishing oil, used in cosmetics for skin and hair care.
2. Hazelnut flour: The seeds can be ground to obtain a flour used in pastry making and traditional recipes.
3. Amygdalin (Laetrile): It is a substance contained in apricot seeds, sometimes used in alternative medical contexts, although its use is controversial and unapproved in many areas.
4. Decorations: The stones can be used to create decorative or craft items, such as beads for necklaces or bracelets.
5. Natural fertilizer: Crushed and composted kernels can make an excellent organic fertilizer for the garden.

Planting an apricot tree from a stone is a process that requires patience and care, but the satisfaction of seeing a fruitful tree grow from the seed is priceless. With the right attention, not only will you have a tree that will give you delicious fruit, but you will also have contributed to the beauty and biodiversity of your garden.