Lauranne

Agrotechnics and Potential of the "Lauranne" Almond

The Spanish variety "Lauranne" is a choice for those prioritizing efficiency and stability. Thanks to its self-fertility, this almond eliminates the need for cross-pollinators, which is critical for commercial orchards in the Steppe and Forest-Steppe zones. The tree develops a spreading canopy of medium vigor, facilitating mechanized pruning and harvesting.

Planting and Canopy Management

The optimal time for establishing an orchard is early spring or late autumn, depending on soil moisture. Given its spreading habit, a planting density of 5x6 or 6x6 meters is recommended. This ensures sufficient sunlight and airflow, reducing the risk of fungal infections. Canopy training should focus on building a robust skeleton capable of supporting heavy fruit loads.

Care and Protection

"Lauranne" demonstrates high resistance to polystigmos and other fungal diseases, allowing for a reduction in fungicide applications. However, to achieve its yield potential (kernel weight of 1.3–1.5 g), irrigation during active growth and fruit development phases is critical. In the Steppe zone, drip irrigation is essential for consistent annual yields.

• Soil: Prefers light, well-drained loams with a neutral pH.
• Development Phases: A mid-season variety, with harvest occurring in September. It is important to monitor the condition of generative buds, which form on short and one-year-old shoots.
• Protection: Despite natural resistance, preventive treatments during the "green cone" stage remain a standard agricultural practice.

The hard shell with a strong keel development protects the kernel effectively, and high resistance to shell cracking minimizes losses during mechanized harvesting.