Prunus dulcis (Almond)

Prunus dulcis (Almond) is a large multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree, usually with a twisted, fissured trunk and a spreading dome-shaped canopy. Fragrant, bowl-shaped, palest pink or white flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves emerge. Borne laterally on spurs or short lateral branches, they are very attractive to pollinating insects. The blossoms are followed by velvety, pale green fruit containing edible nuts. The almonds mature in late summer or fall, their hull splitting open to reveal the nut inside. The pale green leaves, up to 5 in. long (12 cm), are alternate, lanceolate, and have a serrated margin. They exhibit a yellow-orange fall color. Plant at least two varieties for the best cross-pollination if grown for nut production.

Cultivated for at least 3000 years, Prunus dulcis is native to central and southwestern Asia and northern Africa but is now grown worldwide. It thrives in temperate climates where summers are long, hot, and dry, and winters are mild and wet. It needs some winter chill, 300 to 600 hours below 45°F (7°C), to break dormancy. However, it must be spared from frosts: its early spring flowers are susceptible to frost damage.

• Grows up to 10-15 ft. tall and wide (300-450 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in deep, moderately fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Almonds tolerate a wide range of soils except for heavy, slow-draining soils. They can withstand drought and grow in poor soils. Will benefit from a layer of mulch to conserve soil moisture. Fertilize in spring before any new growth and again in the fall.
• Almond trees should be pruned in the first year and every subsequent year to help thin the canopy and prevent disease.
• Look for leaf spot, dieback, powdery mildew, canker, black knot, verticillium wilt, aphids, scale, borers, caterpillars, tent caterpillars, Japanese beetles, and spider mites.
• Propagate by chip budding or grafting.
• Native Asia Minor and North Africa.