The Marcona almond It is one of the most prized varieties in the world of nuts thanks to its flavor, texture, and culinary versatility, as well as its high nutritional value. Native to the Mediterranean basin and especially recognized in Spain, the Marcona has characteristics that clearly differentiate it from other varieties, such as the Largueta. Let's delve into its properties, the cultivation process, specific care, and the main agronomic aspects of this gastronomic gem.
Morphological and agronomic characteristics of the Marcona almond
- Scientific name: Almond
- Family: rosacea
- Ports: Deciduous tree 4-10 meters tall, trunk up to 30 cm in diameter
- Vigor: Medium, with a tendency towards semi-erect or semi-open bearing
- Increase: Vertical, well adapted to extensive and traditional plantations
- Cascara: Durable, effectively protects the fruit
- Flowering: Early and abundant; whitish flowers with slight pink hues, with five petals
- Pollination: Requires Cross pollination (it is not self-fertile), joint planting with other varieties is essential
- Fruit: Rounded shape, soft inner shell (easy to peel), sweet, aromatic and intense flavor
The Marcona root system stands out for its thick and deep roots, with branches that ensure efficient water absorption even in dry environments. Its leaves are lanceolate, long, pointed, and deep green, with serrated edges. The trunk is smooth in young trees and cracks with age, turning grayish-brown. The fruit, the almond, is a drupe composed of a hard outer covering and an edible seed inside.
Origin and most important cultivation areas
The Marcona almond It is native to the Mediterranean region, mainly Spain, where it is the traditionally most valued variety for its organoleptic quality. Its cultivation extends especially to provinces of the east, such as Alicante, Valencia and Castellón, although it has expanded to other nut-producing areas in the country and even to international areas thanks to growing global demand. This geographical expansion has been possible due to its adaptation to dry and warm climates with mild winters and dry summers, although crops have been successfully tested in more temperate areas.
The Mediterranean climate is ideal for the development of Marcona, as its early flowers require mild temperatures to avoid frost damage. Globalization and new agricultural techniques have allowed for an increase in the area devoted to this variety.
Comparison with other almond varieties
- Almond shape: Marcona is rounded and shorter, the lattice is elongated.
- Cascara: The Marcona is softer (easy to peel), hard on the largueta.
- Flavor and texture: Marcona stands out for its sweetness and smooth texture, while other varieties tend to be less aromatic and drier.
- Culinary uses: Marcona is preferably used in fine pastries, nougat, marzipan and as a gourmet snack.
Marcona is considered by experts and consumers to be one of the most valuable almonds in the culinary and baking world, making it irreplaceable in traditional and modern recipes.
Requirements and care for growing Marcona almonds
- Ground: It prefers loose, sandy, and well-drained soils. It tolerates loamy soils, but suffers from waterlogged or poorly drained soils. It is important to avoid heavy, compacted soils.
- Subscriber: Apply organic fertilizer before the main bud burst in spring and a second application of fertilizer at the beginning or end of summer to ensure growth and fruiting.
- Irrigation: Although it is a hardy species, it appreciates moderate watering, especially during establishment and the first few years. Drip irrigation is preferable to maintain a constant humidity level and avoid waterlogging. Excess water can reduce the sweetness and quality of the fruit.
- Pruning: It's recommended to prune annually to remove old, dry, or unproductive branches. This ensures good ventilation, higher fruit quality, and better access to sunlight.
- Temperature: It requires a period of winter cold to induce dormancy, but does not tolerate strong frosts during the flowering period.
- Pollination: Plant compatible varieties nearby to ensure cross-pollination, as Marcona is not self-fertile. The presence of bees and natural pollinators is essential.
- Transplant: If the plant is root-bound, repot during the winter dormancy. Pot transplants can be done almost any time of year.
La rusticity The Marcona almond tree's cultivation makes it possible in areas with low rainfall (minimum 300 mm per year), although profitability increases significantly with rainfall of 600 mm per year.
Main pests and diseases
The Marcona almond is resistant, but can be affected by:
- Common pests: Caterpillars, mealybugs, aphids.
- Fungal diseases: Powdery mildew, downy mildew, armillaria y Phytophthora.
- Control and prevention: Carry out preventative treatments in winter. Mix fungicide, insecticide, and foliar fertilizer or amino acid to prevent and treat the appearance of these threats. Proper phytosanitary control guarantees quality harvests.
Water depletion and root fracture due to extreme drought can also negatively affect tree health, so adjusting irrigation is critical.
Harvesting and post-harvest
The Marcona almond ripening period is relatively long. Flowering occurs in the first months of the year, and the fruit can take up to eight months to be ready for harvesting. The harvesting process can be done manually or using mechanical systems, especially in extensive plantations.
It's important to harvest almonds when the shell opens and the fruit is fully ripe. After harvesting, they must be properly dried to prevent the growth of fungus and ensure their preservation.
Uses and gastronomic versatility
The Marcona almond It is known as the "queen of almonds" for its versatility. Some of its most notable uses are:
- Raw consumption as a premium snack
- Toasted or salted for appetizers
- Essential ingredient in fine pastries: nougat, marzipan, cakes and biscuits
- Almond flour for gluten-free recipes
- Preparation of almond milk and spreads
- Complement in salads, rice dishes and fish
Marcona enhances traditional and modern recipes thanks to its unmistakable flavor and smooth texture.
Nutritional properties and health benefits
- Healthy fats: It contains a high proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids, which help reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increase HDL ("good").
- Vegetable proteins: Excellent source, ideal for vegetarian and vegan diets.
- Vitamins and minerals: They include vitamin E (antioxidant), magnesium, calcium and iron.
- Fiber: It promotes digestion and satiety, recommended in balanced diets.
Specific health benefits include cardiovascular support, improved bone health thanks to calcium and magnesium, and cellular protection thanks to its antioxidants. They can also contribute to appetite regulation thanks to their sustained energy supply.
Consumption and food safety recommendations
The recommended amount for an adult is around 23 almonds a day (about 28 grams), providing approximately 160 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 14 grams of healthy fats. Due to their nutritional richness and calorie content, moderate consumption is recommended, especially for low-calorie diets.
Marcona is also considered a useful home remedy for heartburn and can be part of menus for the whole family.
Additional tips for planting and caring for Marcona
- Choice of place: Prefer locations with maximum sun exposure.
- Initial irrigation: Water regularly for the first two years; then, water more sparingly, increasing the watering rate during warm periods.
- Pest management: Monitor and treat early to avoid crop losses.
- Balanced fertilizer: Alternate organic matter and mineral contributions to maintain the tree's vigor.
- Formation pruning: Essential in the early years to facilitate the development of a strong and productive structure.
Due to its flavor, nutritional value, adaptability, and low maintenance, the Marcona variety is a favorite in the gourmet sector, and continues to win over new palates with each growing season. While its cultivation requires some specific attention, it produces top-quality fruit, suitable for both home consumption and commercial production.