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.