Plant Name:  Almond, Monterey

Botanical Name:  Prunus dulcis, “Monterey”

Origin:  Native to Asia Minor and North Africa.

Height/Physical Description:  Deciduous, semi-dwarf tree that grows 12 to 15 feet in height and wide.  It has leaves that are 3-5 inches long, pale green with gray tinge and pink or white flowers in early Spring that give way to large leathery, flattened fruit in the Fall.

Special Attributes:  The nuts of the Monterey Almond are large, sweet and meaty making them a popular choice for eating and baking.  This tree thrives in the warm, dry climates of California and is a good choice for backyard gardeners. This tree requires another almond tree for pollination.

Purchasing:  Private nurseries or online.

Planting Requirements: Plant in well-drained soil.

Watering:  Require moderate water.  Young trees need regular water until established.  Water mature trees deeply.

Fertilizing:  Compost can be added but away from the base of the tree.

Pruning:  For deciduous trees, prune when leaves have completely dropped off.  May need some Summer pruning.

Additional Information:  This tree thrives best where Summers are long, hot and dry with some Winter chill.   It is a heavy bearer of fruit.  Sunset growing zones 12-16, 19-21.