Tip Top Apricot
50d to harvest
Fragrant, sunset-bright blooms and peppery leaves arrive in a lush, trailing cascade—Tip Top Apricot paints gardens with warm apricot-orange petals that glow against deep green foliage. The flavor is lively and tangy with a gentle, apricot-kissed sweetness, while the tender leaves and blossoms offer a crisp, succulent bite. Grow Tip Top Apricot for fresh garnishes, vibrant salads, and eye-catching color in pickles and bright sauces—its blossoms are especially prized for their vivid, velvety charm.
Crop Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Start Indoors | Direct Sow |
| Last Frost | Apr 1st |
| Transplant / Sow Outdoors | Apr 1st |
| Harvest Begins | May 21st |
| Harvest Ends | Nov 5th |
Crop Details
| Trait | Value |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 50 |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Habit | Bush |
| Support Needed | None |
| Planting Depth | Surface |
| Germination Temp (°F) | 70 |
| Min Soil Temp (°F) | 50 |
| Min Night Temp (°F) | 32 |
| Harden Off (days) | Not Required |
Recommended Companions
Frequently Asked Questions
What pest or disease is most common on Tropaeolum majus (Tip Top Apricot), and how do I treat it?
Tropaeolum majus commonly gets aphids and whitefly, which leave sticky honeydew and can stunt growth. Spray plants with a strong jet of water to knock pests off, then repeat every 2–3 days for a week; for heavier infestations, use insecticidal soap and cover leaf undersides. If you see powdery mildew (a gray-white dust on leaves), remove badly affected foliage and keep plants well-spaced with good airflow to reduce repeat outbreaks.
How can I tell when Tip Top Apricot (Tropaeolum majus) is ready to harvest?
Harvest flowers and leaves starting around 50 days after sowing, when plants are actively blooming. Pick flowers when they are fully colored and open for best flavor, and harvest leaves by cutting young, tender growth rather than older, tougher leaves. Continue harvesting regularly to encourage more blooms through the growing period.