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Growing Almonds

The Flower Bud Formation: In mid summer buds differentiate into flower and vegetative distinction. In the fall, flower parts begin to develop within the growing bud. By mid-December, pollen grains are present. The tiny bud remains dormant until early January when it grows rapidly.

The Bloom: February and early March weather coaxes the first almond tree blossoms from their buds. From February on, orchards should be frost-free, have mild temperatures (55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), and minimal rain so blossoms can flourish and bees can pollinate the blossoms. Bees are required to cross pollinate varieties for fertilization.

The Estimate: The California Agricultural Statistics Service (CASS) provides the industry with a Subjective Crop Forecast in May. The Objective Measurement, which is based on actual nut count, is released at the end of June.

The Fruit: After the petals drop and the trees have leafed out, the first signs of the fuzzy gray-green “fruit” appear. The hull continues to harden and mature and in July it begins to split open. Between mid-August and late October, the split widens, exposing the shell, which allows the kernel (nut) to dry. The whole nut and stem finally separate and, shortly before harvest, the hull opens completely.

The Harvest: Almonds are mechanically shaken from the tree. They are swept, picked-up and hauled to Huller/Shellers that remove the hull and shell.

Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) provide guidelines to growers on how to minimize potential hazards during production and sources of potential contamination.
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