Almond | Definition, Cultivation, Types, Nutrition, Uses, Nut, & Facts

Cultivation

California produces nearly 80 percent of the world’s supply of almonds. The annual pollination of the state’s almond orchards is the largest managed pollination event in the world, with more than 1.1 million beehives brought to California each year.

See how a tree shaker harvests pecans
See how a tree shaker harvests pecansWatch a tree shaker harvesting pecans. The same method is employed to harvest almonds.(more)See all videos for this article

The sweet almond is cultivated extensively in certain favorable regions, though nut crops are uncertain wherever frosts are likely to occur during flowering. While more than 25 types of almonds are grown in California, Marcona and Valencia almonds come from Spain, and Ferragnes are imported from Greece. Old World almond cultivation was characterized by small plantings mainly for family use; trees interplanted with other crops; variability in age, condition, and bearing capacity of individual trees; and hand labur, often with crude implements. Modern almond growers are typically more industrial, with vast orchards of at least three types of trees the same age. Mechanized tree shakers are often used to expedite harvesting, and many growers must rent hives of western honeybees during flowering season to pollinate their trees. Indeed, the annual pollination of the almonds in California is the largest managed pollination event in the world, with more than 1.1 million beehives brought to the state each year. Colony collapse disorder (CCD), which has led to a global decline of honeybee populations, threatens the multibillion dollar industry.

Slices of lemon pie topped with meringue. Britannica Quiz Baking and Baked Goods Quiz

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