Almond

Background

• The Almond is very closely related to the peach.
• Almonds belong to the Rose family (Rosaceae).
• They are believed to have originated in Asia.
• Almonds have short chilling requirements (300 hours below 7degC). Once this cold requirement is me tthe tree will start to bloom.
• Blossoms and small nuts on the trees can be damaged or killed by frosts and therefore need protection.
• Good crop yields require additional irrigation.
• The almond tree can grow 6-9 m in height.
• The tree flowers in late Winter or in early Spring.
• Bees are important pollinators for almond trees.
• Trees will start bearing fruit at 3-4 years of age. They may continue to bear fruit for more than 50 years.

Cultivation

• Almonds need well drained soils.
• They are drought resistant, but will not produce nuts if there is a water deficit.
• Organic fertiliser should be applied in both autumn and spring.

Training

• Bare rooted almonds should be planted in early winter.
• If the tree is planted late in the season it may remain dormant.
• Select four main branches at different levels on the trunk approximately 10-15cm apart.
• Train to an open vase shape.
• Each main branch should have an additional 2-3 secondary branches.
• General pruning should consist of thinningold laterals adn inward growing branches.