The almond trees normally set a larger number of fruit buds than they are capable of maturing. The number of blossoms set on a healthy tree to produce a full crop will be generally not more than 20 per cent of the total number which opened in the spring, and oftentimes much less. It has frequently been noted that trees which are somewhat lacking in vigor are inclined to set a larger number of fruit buds than those that are strong and vigorous. The normal set of blossoms on a young, vigorous tree is shown in figure 2. The result is that with the sub-normal strength of such trees being distributed among the extra number of fruit buds, the latter are not able to develop into the strong, healthy buds they should. The results of such conditions have been discussed on pages 23, bottom, and 24, top. One of the best means of securing and keeping healthy, productive trees is by careful, thoughtful and systematic pruning. The treatment given most of the almond orchards would indicate that the growers consider pruning to be one of the least important of the cultural practices. [Illustration: Fig. 8.—Typical Drake almond tree in University Farm orchard; nine years old.] [Illustration: Fig. 9.—Typical Languedoc almond tree in University Farm orchard; nine years old.] To be most effective, pruning must be followed systematically throughout the entire life of the tree. The details of the practice will vary greatly, depending on the soil, moisture and climatic conditions surrounding the tree, as well as other treatment accorded it. At planting time, it is generally agreed that the tree should be cut back to between 18 and 24 inches from the ground to reduce the top to correspond to the shortened root system and to form a low head for the tree. A low head is desirable to avoid sunburn of the trunk and to keep the tree within easy reach for pruning, spraying and harvesting. During the first summer in the orchard much can be done to obtain a well-balanced head, to get the main branches well spaced on the trunk, and to prevent crowding later on, by pinching out all undesirable growth as fast as it appears and forcing the growth into those parts of the tree which are to remain. If these branches tend to grow too long and willowy, they may be made to branch by pinching back when they attain the desired height. In this way, if the tree can be kept growing vigorously, the beginning of an excellent foundation framework may be developed the first year. [Illustration: Fig. 10.—Typical Nonpareil almond tree in University Farm orchard; nine years old. Note numerous water sprouts which must be removed.] [Illustration: Fig. 11.—Typical I.X.L. almond tree in University Farm orchard; nine years old.]