These green-lings don't linger for long!

Above picture is of a branch of green almonds at whitmore ranch. These baby almonds typically hang around for only about 6-8 weeks starting now. Apparently, many upscale gourmet chefs use green almonds as garnishing on their savory dishes. Here's the lowdown on this young nut.

Look: Fuzzy soft hull with gelatinous textured nut inside (think young coconut pulp).

Flavor: Raw, fruity and a little wheatgrassy'ish.

Taste: Sweet, tangy(?) with nice crunch.

Nutrition: Same as mature almonds.

Spring at Whitmore

Whitmore 4th leaf orchard and candycot trees. While almond trees set fruit already, candycot trees couldn't be bothered. They are only half-awake from their winter slumber.

Jacket split phase at Whitmore

It is always a pleasure to notice nutlets breaking free from their protective jackets following the end of the bloom season. In coming days, we will be able to tell how hard the bees worked. Here's a latest pic from the Whitmore ranch (click on it for hi res version).

The life cycle of an almond flower

Bud --> Bloom --> Jacket --> Nutlet.  

(Click on the pic to view a larger version).