July marks the beginning of apricot season!

Sweet and full of fragrance, Idaho apricots are loaded with beta-carotene (the pigment that gives the fruit a lovely golden orange color), Vitamin-A, Vitamin-C, potassium and fiber! Idaho grows the popular “Gold Rich” variety of apricots which are typically much larger and sweeter than the apricots found in stores year-round.

Apricots grow well in the well-drained mountainous sloped soils of Canyon, Ada, Gem and Washington county. A mature apricot tree will produce around 300-400 pounds of fruit each season. However, don’t let this large number fool you –Idaho apricots are harvested in early July and will only be available for a limited time!

Stop by your local grocery stores, farmers markets and fruit stands and look for fresh, flavorful Idaho Preferred® apricots. Or go straight to the source and visit some of Idaho’s amazing orchards and producers: Kelley’s Canyon Orchard (Filer), Tyler’s Rocky Point Orchard (Emmett), Walker Fruit Ranch (Emmett), Henggeler Packing Company (Fruitland), Garrett Ranches Packing (Wilder), Symms Fruit Ranch (Caldwell) – some even offer u-pick!

Sink your teeth into a raw apricot and enjoy its natural fleshy, sweet flavor or bring home a basket and treat yourself with this Fresh Apricot Pie recipe. Either way, make sure to get them before they’re gone!