TIME TO CONSIDER
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Almond Facts
JULY | AUGUST 2016
Stockpile Management
While waiting to be processed, almonds can be stockpiled.
Stockpiling has a number of advantages, including
getting the almonds out of the orchard sooner, the ability
to perform post-harvest practices, reduce in-field ant
infestations, and allowing greater flexibility in scheduling
transport to the processer.
When stockpiling, make sure that the moisture content
of hulls and kernels is less than 12 percent and 6 percent,
respectively, and choose a location which is suitable for
drainage in rainy weather and that is not near equipment
or fuel storage. Stockpiles should be oriented in a north-
south direction to aid in drying and covered with white-
on-black tarps. Monitor humidity and open the tarp when
appropriate to reduce condensation and mold formation.
Also monitor and treat for insect, bird, and rodent pests. If
rain threatens, ensure piles are covered. Finally, be aware
that stockpiles are a potential fire hazard.
Stockpiles should be fumigated to reduce insect
infestation. NOW is an excellent storage pest and can
survive in stockpile conditions. Furthermore, this pest
can continue to feed and reproduce within stockpiles,
increasing damage as well as aflatoxin risk. Although
time consuming, fumigation is critical in killing larvae
and eggs, reducing damage.
Be wary of too much moisture in stockpiles. Studies
have shown that hull moisture above 14 percent and a
holding temperature greater than 120 degrees Fahrenheit
will increase the risk for concealed damage and mold.
If needed, delay harvest until nuts can dry. If already in
stockpiles, remove tarps during the day to dry and cover
at night. If harvesting in rainy conditions, keep the nuts
in the tree if possible to aid in drying. If already on the
ground, try to encourage drying by removing leaves, twigs,
and other material. This may take several passes with the
pick-up machine or conditioner.
Hull Analysis for Boron
Boron is an important micronutrient for almonds. Boron
is critical for flower fertilization, as it is involved in
directing the germinating pollen tube. Deficiencies lead
to reduced nut set, and in severe cases, an appearance
of a “nonproductive symptom.” Within the tree, boron
deficiency can lead to a dieback of small twigs and
a “weeping branch” look. Boron is also toxic at high
concentrations. Boron toxicity is often being observed
in areas with high soil boron or in blocks irrigated
with water containing boron. Boron toxicity symptoms
appear as gummy nuts that may form «stick tights,” as
well as gum exuding from pruning wounds, bud and leaf
scars, and spurs.
A small navel orangeworm (NOW) larvae
crawling on the surface of a nut. NOW will
feed on the nut, decreasing crop yield and
quality while increasing the risk of aflatoxin.
