Advantages and Varieties of High-Density Almond Cultivation

Agromillora Group

Advantages and Varieties of High-Density Almond Cultivation

Almonds are a product that stands out both for their health benefits and flavor, and their use across multiple industries has driven rapid growth in global demand.

Today, the leading almond-producing countries include the United States, Australia, Spain, Turkey, and Morocco.

According to 2022 data:

  • Spain ranks first globally in almond cultivation area, with 32.3%.
  • The U.S. is the top almond-producing country, accounting for 51.2% of total production.
  • Australia has the highest productivity with 622.6 kg/da.
  • Turkey ranks 8th in cultivation area, with 63,266 hectares.
 

For more detailed information, you can refer to the table below showing global almond cultivation areas, production quantities, and yields.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the table below showing global almond cultivation areas, production quantities, and yields.

According to FAO 2024 data, almonds are cultivated on 63,266 hectares in Turkey. Thanks to its favorable climate and deep-rooted agricultural experience, Turkey has the potential to reach a strong position in almond production and trade. However, currently, the country remains a net importer in the almond trade.

To balance supply and demand and enhance competitiveness in global markets, increasing both yield and quality in production is essential. A standout solution in this regard is the adoption of modern high-density systems—combining high productivity with sustainability—and the use of almond varieties suited to these systems. Due to the multiple advantages they offer, these systems have the potential to shape the future of almond cultivation in Turkey.

Advantages of High-Density Almond Farming

Early Yield and Quick Return on Investment

In high-density orchards, trees begin bearing fruit earlier, significantly shortening the return on investment compared to traditional systems. Substantial yields are typically achieved within 3 to 4 years.

Increased Tree Density per Hectare

While traditional systems accommodate 8–10 trees per decare (0.1 ha), high-density systems allow for 20 to 60 trees per decare, resulting in higher output per unit area.

Mechanization and Labor Savings

Modern high-density systems are designed for mechanized harvesting, pruning, and spraying. This reduces labor requirements, lowers labor costs, and speeds up production processes.

Uniform Growth and Product Quality

Almond varieties suited to high-density planting promote synchronized and balanced tree development, leading to more uniform product quality and increased market value.

Efficient Irrigation and Fertilization

Modern high-density orchards implement controlled systems such as drip irrigation and precision fertilization, improving yield while using water and fertilizers more efficiently.

Protection Against Wind and Frost Risk

Dense planting practices create a more enclosed structure in the garden, making it easier to protect especially young saplings from environmental damage such as wind and frost.

Almond Varieties Suitable for High-Density Systems

Variety selection in high-density almond cultivation directly impacts productivity and marketing success from the very first planting. The most suitable varieties for this system are those with low to medium vigor, good branching, and late or very late flowering.

At Agromillora, we lead the development of high-density-compatible almond varieties worldwide. Our R&D efforts continue with the goal of producing high-yielding cultivars that adapt to diverse environmental conditions and integrate seamlessly into high-density systems.

Highlighted High-Density Almond Varieties:

Avijor: Medium vigor, moderate branching, and late flowering—ensuring high productivity.

Guara: Medium vigor, low branching, and late flowering—supporting efficient yield.

Penta: Medium vigor, strong branching, and very late flowering—offering strong performance.

Makako: High vigor, moderate branching, and very late flowering—demonstrating high yield potential.

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The SES is a label that identifies Agromillora's value proposition based on super-intensive cultivation.