Position
Plant almond trees in full sun, where they will receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Allow at least 4 metres of space around each tree for future growth, good airflow, and sunlight penetration.
Almond trees grow best in warm, dry climates with hot summers and low humidity. They are not well suited to persistently humid conditions, which can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Size
Almond trees generally grow to between 4 and 6 metres high, with a similar spread, depending on the variety, climate, rootstock, and pruning.
Trees may begin producing a small crop from around 2–3 years after planting, with yields increasing as the tree matures. Good production can generally be expected from around 5–7 years.
Soil Type
Almond trees are adaptable to a range of soil types, including moderately chalky or alkaline soils, but perform best in deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Good drainage is essential, as almond roots do not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Superfrass (R25 per bag) is a natural, high-quality organic growth enhancer and pesticide, and Volcanic Rock Dust(R25 per bag), which contains more than 72 trace elements and minerals, can be added at planting.
Watering
Almond tree roots do not like to be waterlogged. Water young trees regularly while they establish, giving them a good, deep soaking rather than frequent shallow watering.
During hot, dry spring and summer weather, young trees may require a deep watering every 4–5 days, depending on the soil type and weather conditions. Let the upper soil begin drying between waterings, and reduce watering during winter when the tree is dormant.
Mulching
All plants and trees benefit from mulch. Good mulch helps to keep the roots moist and protected from harmful UV rays. Mulch also adds nutrients to feed the plant. Use pine bark mulch
round the tree, particularly during hot, dry weather.
It is essential to keep the mulch approximately 5 cm away from the trunk. Mulch piled against the trunk can retain excessive moisture and encourage rot, fungal disease, and pests.
It is essential to keep the mulch about 5 centimetres away from the stem. If it touches the plant, it may cause the branches to rot and get infected.
Fertilising
Apply 1 teaspoon of our slow-release, nitrogen-rich berry/all-plant fertiliser every 4-5 months.
Pruning
Young trees benefit from being trained into an open-centre or vase shape, allowing sunlight and air to penetrate the canopy. Once established, prune each year lightly to maintain the tree’s shape and encourage healthy fruiting wood.
Pests and Diseases
Watch for borers, which can attack the woody trunk and branches of almond trees. Even young trees may be affected. Regularly inspect the trunk and branches for holes, sawdust-like material, or other signs of borer activity.
Aphids, mites, and fungal diseases such as mildew may also occur.
Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM) Control will help prevent or treat aphids, mites, or mildew. If infested, then wash the tree with a strong hose. When dry, spray with Neem oil or EM Control. Consistency is key.
Harvesting
Flower buds open before the leaf buds in spring. Blossoms last about 2 weeks, and the fruit develops in mid-summer. The inner shell completes its development 3 months after blossoming. Harvesting takes place in February and March. Almond trees will give maximum yield at 7 to 9 years old, and can produce for up to 40 years.
