Controlled-release nitrogen fertilizers for improving yield and fruit quality of young apricot trees

•The effect of N fertilizers releasing speed and rate on apricot morpho-physiology, yield and fruit quality was assessed.•The 6-month controlled-released fertilizer had higher yield than conventional in the second growing season.•The 150 kg ha−1 N rate increased fruit yield (compared to 75 kg-N ha−1) but reduced sucrose and a* (redness) color coordinate, the visual guide for consumers to choose ripe fruits.•The long-term use of controlled-release fertilizers hold promise for increasing apricot production and reducing environmental contamination.