The almond, or almond tree, has surprisingly close relatives among peaches, or plums and cherries. Together they bear the name of the genus Prunus. However, the main interesting fact is that while the flesh of the peach is edible and the kernel has no common use, the opposite is true of the almond. The tougher flesh merely forms a thick protective covering, the inner core, which hides the kernel. Extremely tasty and healthy. It contains fibre, protein, amino acids, vitamins A, B and E, as well as magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, iron and other beneficial substances.
Almond is not a nut
However, the almond is not actually a nut, although its kernel is part of nut mixes and the range of specialty stores. The kernels of the almond tree are popular in the kitchen in a number of ways. As part of 'nut' mixes, part of confectionery recipes, fillings and decorating, but also in hot cooking. Almonds are a common assortment in the nut department, but can also be grown at home. Almond trees are popular trees for the common Slovakian garden. While in the past they were considered an unknown exotic, our conditions suit them without difficulty, although spring frosts can plague most of our gardens. Almond trees are no exception. Except for the varieties below.
Fantastic varieties of almond trees and their important characteristics
Almond trees can make us happy because of their gorgeous display of spring white flowers with a hint of pink. The blooms are so pronounced that they can outnumber those on apricots or other fruit trees in the garden of the same age. Early flowering, however, also brings some difficulty in maintaining the bloom. Spring frosts can weaken the tree, reducing both the vigour of the flowers and their ability to produce a crop. However, there are also almond tree varieties on the market that flower slightly later. It is the delay in flowering that subsequently brings greater hardiness and characteristics that multiply the yield of the tree.
Almond (Amygdalus communis) Ferraduel
Native to France. It is a newer variety which, together with Ferragnés, is one of the most important varieties of almond trees in this country. It originated in Bordeaux when it was bred there in 1966. It has a strong growth of up to 3-4 metres, and the tree can easily be pruned down to a smaller height. It prefers a sunny position, permeable soil and does not mind soil with irregular watering. The variety is known for its high fertility and large fruit. It has excellent hardiness and is resistant to monoliosis and fungal diseases. (Details: Ferraduel almond tree)
It is the later flowering that requires a pollinator tree that also flowers at the same time. Ideally, the pollinator should be Ferragnés.
Almond (Amygdalus communis) Ferragnes
It has the same origin and meaning, with Ferraduel being a suitable pollinator. It is ideal to combine both trees in one garden. Their characteristics are similar and, when grown, slight differences can be noticed, particularly in the fruit and its ripening. (Details: Ferragnes almond tree)
Almond (Amygdalus communis) Palatina
The Palatina variety is a really interesting addition to the almond tree range. The variety is self-pollinating and originates from Germany. It was obtained from the offspring of an old tree which was apparently the only one of its kind, and it is fortunate that it has been given sufficient attention by growers. A number of its characteristics are identical with the French varieties above. The very fact that it is self-pollinating allows it to be grown even in a smaller garden limited to the number of trees. However, it is also interesting for its kernel shell, which is much thinner and can usually be separated in the hand. This variety also comes into bearing early as a young tree. The hardiness characteristics of the wood are given as -20°C to -25°C. (Details: Palatina almond tree)
NOTE:All the trees mentioned above are offered by tutifruti.sk in containers. This allows planting throughout the year without damaging the roots, outside of the frozen months. However, the advantage is also the ease of carrying and fewer restrictions for the planning grower.
