Question
We have recently purchased a home with an old apricot tree in the yard. There is sap coming from some of the branches and the fruit, which is a lot, all seems to have little brown spots or blemeshes at the stalk. Any ideas and suggestions. I guess the tree must be about 40 years old

Answer
Joan:
This sap is usually amber colored and sometimes thick and even hard. It is a tree defense mechanism to some type of an injury- often a boring type insect like the plum curculio moth. There are some insecticide out there, but this critter is difficult to control once it gets inside the tree. A vigorous growing tree can withstand borers for many years. Check with your local garden center for insecticide options. An important consideration is; Can I reach and cover the entire tree with a spray?  It may be too tall to cover the tree. This can be a limitation.

Regards
Steve