How are almonds grown?
Germinated seeds are potted and grown in hot houses. The small seedlings are then planted in a nursery. During December almond budwood is grafted onto the young tree that developed from the initial seedling. The new trees reach a height of over 90cm before being taken from the nursery and planted in prepared orchards throughout winter and spring. After three years of growth, the almond tree produces its first crop. Trees reach maturity at seven years and have a life cycle of 25-30 years. In the almond tree lifecycle, late August until early September is an important time when buds burst into full bloom and are ready for pollination. Pollination has a direct impact on crop size in the upcoming harvest. Bees are brought into the orchard to assist in the pollination process carrying pollen between different varieties of almond blossom. Good weather conditions are required for effective bee pollination. Following pollination, the almond emerges surrounded by a shell and outer hull. During
