Growing Almonds in Containers: A Step-By-Step Guide

Growing almonds in containers offers several benefits, particularly for gardeners with limited space or non-ideal soil conditions. Containers provide control over soil quality, allowing you to create the perfect growing environment with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. They also make it easier to manage water and protect the tree from overwatering or root rot.

Container-grown almond trees can be relocated to optimize sunlight exposure and shielded from extreme weather conditions, enhancing their chances of thriving. In addition, growing almonds in pots helps minimize pest and disease risks and allows for better maintenance, such as pruning and fertilizing. This method is ideal for urban gardeners or those experimenting with almond cultivation.

Growing Almonds in Pots

Growing almonds in containers can be a rewarding experience, especially if you don’t have the space for a full orchard. Almond trees are resilient and can adapt well to container life if given proper care. This guide will take you through each step to grow almonds successfully in a container.

1. Understanding Almond Trees

• Type: Almond trees are deciduous and belong to the prunus family, which includes peaches and plums.
• Varieties for Containers: Look for dwarf or semi-dwarf almond varieties like ‘Garden Prince,’ which are more suited to container growth.
• Pollination: Some almond varieties are self-pollinating, but many require a pollinator. If choosing a non-self-pollinating variety, you’ll need two trees.

2. Choosing the Right Container

• Size: Start with a container at least 20–24 inches in diameter and depth. A larger pot is necessary as the tree grows.
• Material: Use a lightweight material like plastic or fiberglass for ease of movement. Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes.
• Mobility: Consider using a pot with wheels or a plant dolly for easy repositioning.

3. Preparing the Soil

• Almond trees thrive in well-draining soil.
• Use a mix of:
  • 50% high-quality potting soil
  • 25% sand or perlite for drainage
  • 25% organic compost for nutrients
• The soil’s pH should range from 6.0 to 7.0.

4. Planting the Almond Tree

1. Seedlings or Young Trees: Purchase a grafted almond tree or grow one from a seed. Grafted trees produce quicker and are more reliable.
2. Planting Steps:
   • Place a layer of gravel or stones at the bottom of the container for drainage.
   • Add the prepared soil mixture up to halfway.
   • Position the tree so that the graft union (where the tree was grafted onto rootstock) is above the soil line.
   • Fill the rest of the container with soil, firming it gently around the base.

5. Location and Light Requirements

• Light: Almond trees need full sunlight for 6–8 hours daily.
• Temperature: They prefer warm, dry climates but can tolerate short periods of cold. If you live in a cooler area, keep the container indoors during frost periods.
• Wind Protection: Place the container in a sheltered location to protect the tree from strong winds.

6. Watering

• Water deeply but infrequently. Let the top 2 inches of soil dry out between watering to prevent root rot.
• During hot weather, increase watering frequency.

7. Fertilizing

• Use a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) during the growing season (spring to late summer).
• Apply once a month or as directed by the fertilizer packaging.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the tree.

8. Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Prune the tree annually during late winter or early spring to shape it and remove dead or diseased branches.
• Thinning: For better fruit production, thin out dense areas to allow air circulation and sunlight to penetrate.
• Repotting: Repot the tree every 2–3 years into a larger container or refresh the soil in the current pot.

9. Pollination

• If your almond tree is not self-pollinating, you may need to manually pollinate by transferring pollen using a small brush or Q-tip between flowers.

10. Pests and Diseases

• Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and scale. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
• Diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew can be avoided by ensuring proper drainage and air circulation.

11. Harvesting Almonds

• Almonds mature in late summer or early fall.
• The outer husk will split when the almonds are ready to harvest.
• Crack open the shells to retrieve the nuts and allow them to dry for a week before storage.

12. Winter Care

• Almond trees in containers are more vulnerable to cold. Move the tree indoors or to a sheltered area during winter.
• Reduce watering during dormancy but ensure the roots do not dry out completely.

FAQ

Sign up to get our FREE weekly emails

Gardening guides, tips, & videos delivered right to your inbox!