California’s pistachio nut harvest began early, in late August rather than after Labor Day as experienced in recent years. Extremely hot summer days of 100°F have resulted in a high percentage of split nuts on the branch. Accordingly, this has also yielded smaller nuts of many varieties state-wide; the Kalegoochi variety, however, remains large and “colossal” at Orandi Ranch.
As predicted by the Farmer’s Almanac, August temperatures were “scorching” at Orandi Ranch situated in Terra Bella and continued to rise throughout the San Joaquin Valley. The extremely arid, high desert climate of this zone creates the most abundant soil and growing conditions for Pistachio trees (Pistacia vera) to fully mature and develop into fruit-bearing trees. With this year’s pistachio harvest well underway, cooler temperatures are welcome. See what’s in store: http://www.fastweather.com/index.php?city=Terra+Bella_CA&show=radar-animation