Almond Growing Guide

Prunus dulcis

Almond

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Rich, light soil with plenty of organic matter added.

Position

Sunny, sheltered spot.

Frost tolerant

Yes, but it is important to choose varieties known to grow well in your area to reduce risk of losing blooms to spring freezes. Cold damage to spring blossoms is a major limiting factor in where almonds can be successfully grown.

Feeding

Top-dress with a generous mulch of well-rotted organic matter in spring along with a balanced organic fertiliser.

Companions

Corridors within the orchard that are planted with clovers and other legumes contribute to soil fertility and attract pollinators.

Spacing

Single Plants: 6.00m (19' 8") each way (minimum)
Rows: 6.00m (19' 8") with 6.00m (19' 8") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Incorporate plenty of well-rotted organic matter when planting. A wide hole is better than a very deep one. Mulch after planting, and encircle the trunk with a wire cage or protective pipe to protect the young tree from animal and insect pests.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Almonds are best hand-pollinated when only one or two plants are grown. Healthy almond trees will bear for ten to fifteen years or more.

Harvesting

Knock nuts down when they start to drop, then peel and dry them.

Troubleshooting

Keeping almond trees dry under cover or under plastic sheeting can help prevent peach leaf curl and rotting fruits.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Almond