Almond – Ferragnes

Description

Ripening:
Ripens from late February to early March

General Information:

• Climate:  High chilling, suitable for only cold areas like Gauteng South and Free state
• Soil: Requires well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
• Growth Habit: Grows 10-15 feet tall with a spreading canopy, producing white to pale pink flowers in early spring.

Care Tips

1. Watering:
   • Water deeply during dry spells, especially during nut development. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
2. Fertilizing:
   • Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before flowering, suitable for nut trees.
3. Pest Control:
   • Monitor for pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale. Use organic treatments like neem oil as needed.
4. Mulching:
   • Apply organic mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
5. Harvesting:
   • Harvest when the hulls split open. Shake branches gently or use mechanical methods for collection. Process the nuts promptly to maintain freshness.