Almond Crop Progress Report 04.06.24

Weather

Temperatures have been mild and breezy across the Central Valley area in May. A final spring-time storm made an appearance in the first week of the month and dropped some rain, but overall dry skies have persisted. Some orchard activities were complicated by wind blowing through the valley (10-20 mph) during this time. With the exception of the storm dropping temperatures to around the high 50s to low 60s (14-16°C) the maximum reported temperatures are around 80°F (26°C) and morning lows average no less than 47°F (8°C).

Issues and Pest Control

Observers say that the 2024 crop is now at its maximum weight due to kernel solidification. The comparatively mild temperatures experienced in the past month have reduced the amount of stress on the trees and helped support developing crops. Compared to when last year's nuts reached solidification, this year the crop is well ahead of that timeframe.

Irrigation, fertilisation, orchard floor maintenance and pest management have been the prime activities during this period. Brisk winds and low humidity can cause vegetation issues and increase water consumption. The winds complicated the treatment of weeds as this can only be applied in calm periods and a higher water demand meant that the frequency of irrigation needed to be increased. Nitrogen fertiliser is normally applied during May, and now that nutrient demand is reduced as the kernels are fully solid, most growers are making their last application of nitrogen in these last days.

Pest Control Advisors have noted a large number of Navel Orange Worm moth catches in traps. This was expected due to the presence of mummy nuts in orchards, and treatments to control eggs and newly hatched larvae on these mummy nuts were completed early in the period. Observers in all areas are reporting abandoned orchards and orchards receiving minimal care are contributing to the pest Navel Orange Worn moth problem, as they are strong fliers and can easily infest neighbouring orchards. Growers and Pest Control Advisors will monitor orchards for signs of hull split, to prepare any treatments necessary for NOW when the nut is at its most vulnerable.

via Blue Diamond Growers