All About Apricots
apricots

Blenheim Apricots: (also called Royal Blenheim). This is an old variety, dating back more than 160 years in England. It comprises nearly 30% of the apricots grown in California and is used for canning and drying. Blenheim bloom is relatively late and heavy. In 1993, harvest date was early, but in 1995, harvest was mid-season. Yield for the two cropping years averaged 45 pounds per tree and average fruit weight was 1.1 to 1.4 ounce. The fruits are poor to fair in attractiveness and 10 to 50% of the fruit surface was covered with a dull reddish-orange blush with some small red spots. The suture was smooth and the stem end sometimes showed splitting along the suture. The suture ratio was 1.11 and the length:diameter ratio was 1.0. The flesh was light orange, firm, juicy, and aromatic with a nice balance of sugar and acid. Flavor was very good to excellent. Preharvest drop may be severe some years.