How to Grow Almond Monterey
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Almond Monterey
Prunus dulcis 'Monterey'
treeMonterey is a semi-dwarf almond cultivar that produces sweet, high-quality nuts with excellent flavor and a thin shell. It is a self-fertile variety, making it ideal for home gardeners who may not have space for multiple almond trees. The tree is moderately vigorous and well-suited to warm, dry climates with moderate chill hour requirements.
When should you plant Almond Monterey in your zone?
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Example Almond Monterey timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Almond Monterey
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Almond Monterey
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-10; requires 200-400 chill hours for successful nut production
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Get my Almond Monterey timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
12 monthsYoung tree develops root system and initial canopy; shoots grow vigorously from the main stem.
Water regularly to establish roots; avoid heavy pruning; remove any competing leaders; stake if necessary for wind protection.
Early Growth (Years 2-3)
24 monthsTree develops lateral branches and a more structured canopy; early flowering may occur but nuts are typically sparse.
Shape tree to an open-center or vase form for better light penetration and airflow; thin competing branches; maintain consistent moisture.
Flowering (Late Winter to Early Spring)
2-4 weeksPink or white blossoms appear on 2-year-old wood before leaves fully emerge; blooms are attractive and fragrant.
Self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination; protect from late frosts; monitor for pests attracted to flowers.
Fruit Development (Spring to Summer)
8-12 weeksSmall green nuts develop within fuzzy green hulls; tree produces fruit on older wood.
Thin fruit if excessive (1 nut every 6 inches) to improve nut size; maintain consistent water; apply zinc-rich fertilizer if needed.
Ripening & Harvest (Late Summer to Early Fall)
4-8 weeksHulls split and lighten, revealing brown shell; nuts dry on tree or fall to ground.
Allow nuts to mature fully on tree before harvest; reduce watering to encourage drying; rake fallen nuts promptly; dry further indoors.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove mummified nuts from tree in late summer; use pheromone traps to monitor; apply spinosad or BtK if infestations occur; maintain good sanitation.
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Keep tree healthy and reduce stress; wrap lower trunk with protective barriers; remove infested branches; apply horticultural oil in early spring.
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Use row covers on young trees; hand-pick in early morning; apply neem oil or spinosad if populations become severe.
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Spray dormant oil in winter; prune heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity through irrigation; spray with water to dislodge; apply miticide or neem oil if populations spike.
Uses
Fresh and Roasted Eating
CulinaryMonterey almonds are prized for their sweet flavor and thin shells, making them excellent for fresh consumption and roasting. The nuts can be blanched, sliced, or used whole in both sweet and savory dishes. [source]
Almond Butter and Flour
CulinaryHigh-quality almonds like Monterey are ideal for making homemade almond butter and almond flour, both popular in paleo, keto, and gluten-free cooking. [source]
Heart Health and Nutrition
MedicinalAlmonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber, supporting cardiovascular health and overall wellness. Regular almond consumption has been linked to improved cholesterol profiles. [source]
Ornamental and Shade Value
HouseholdThe Monterey almond tree provides lovely spring blossoms, attractive foliage, and moderate shade throughout the growing season, making it a dual-purpose landscape tree. [source]
Shell and Wood Crafts
CraftAlmond shells can be used for mulch, polishing, or decorative crafts, while pruned almond wood is hard and suitable for small woodworking projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest nuts in late August to September when hulls split and brown. Once hulls open, nuts can be shaken from the tree onto tarps or harvesting cloths. Allow nuts to dry completely in a warm, well-ventilated area for 2-4 weeks until kernels rattle inside shells, then crack and store in cool, dry conditions.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Monterey is self-fertile due to its self-compatible pollen, making it one of the few almond varieties that doesn't require a pollinator tree—an excellent choice for small gardens or urban settings.
- 🌱 Almond trees can live 50+ years and produce nuts, with some heritage specimens remaining productive for over a century if well-maintained.
- 🌱 California produces about 80% of the world's almonds; the Monterey cultivar was developed specifically for home gardeners and smaller commercial operations.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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