Our tree is 90% dead, but there are some shoots that are alive. Is there any way to use the shoots to start new trees?
If they are on the upper part of the tree, you can graft them:
http://pubs.cas.psu.edu/FreePubs/pdfs/uj255.pdf
If they are suckers at the base, you can separate them from the mother and grow them like saplings.
Can they be controlled? The last two years our apricot and nectarine trees were infested by ants, ruining a lot of our fruit. I cannot find a source and am afraid to spray because of the fruit.
There are likely aphids in the trees, which are attracting the ants. It could also be they are just attracted by the juice.
I would treat the tree with neem oil for possible aphids (neem oil is organic and will not harm people, pets and beneficial bugs).
Also, to keep the ants away, either paint the trunk with a sticky substance (some garden centers will sell products for this) or wrap flypaper or reversed duct tape around the trunk. This will trap the ants before they can reach the fruit.
Last season, the apricots were nice on the outside but rotten inside. This spring there were only a handful of blossoms and now in May the green leaves are dropping from the tree, which is 6 years old. My garden has 1one apricot tree and one cherry tree. The cherry isn't doing well either (2 cherry trees which produce are close to it next door). I have hard clay soil and live in the Redding, CA area close to Shasta Lake. How can I help the trees?
It sound like your trees have a fungus. Treat them with a fungicide. I personally like neem oil. Here is more information on it:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
How should I prune an apricot tree?
This article will help you:
http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/HG_363.pdf
How should I treat my apricot tree so I get clean fruit?
I personally like to use neem oil. It treats for both fungus and pests but is safe for people, pets and beneficial insects. Here is more information on it:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
how do i know when a garlic is ready
I have lots of squirrels in my neighborhood who ravage my apricot tree every year. I need to find a good way to protect the fruit. Tried netting and it didn't work. Any suggestions?
This article has suggestions for keeping squirrels at bay: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/get-rid-squirrels.htm
Can you please advise me of why my 4 year old apricot will not flower. . . many thanks
This can usually be attributed to poor pollination. Both flowers and fruiting will not take place. Here is an article that you may find helpful: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/apricots/apricot-tree-not-fruiting.htm
Thank you Nikki, but the problem I have is that I get no flower buds at all, only leaves.... regards .Don