Development and Commercialization of Apricot of Central Asian Origin

Abstract

Apricot production in the United States has declined over the past several decades. Changes in consumer preference from canned to fresh fruit consumption, and consumer dissatisfaction with “supermarket apricots” are possible reasons for this decline. Consumers desire higher quality cultivars than currently available. Central Asia is a center of origin for apricot ( Prunus armeniacaL) and, recognizing this unique source of diversity, several breeding programs in the US have incorporated Central Asian germplasm in their apricot breeding strategies. In the mid 1990’s I collected a wide diversity of apricot seeds over a very wide geographical range in Central Asia. This formed the basis of our selection and breeding program. Characterization and market testing from the diversity of this collection has led to commercial selections. High soluble solids (21-30° Brix) and complex flavors characterize our selections. Field trials of leading selections are underway worldwide. Commercialization efforts are beginning in California.