"Do almonds grow in any part of our country?" asked Helen.
"I think they grow in California," said Frank.
"You are right," said Uncle John. "There are many almond orchards in the southern part of the state.
"An almond tree in full bloom is a beautiful sight. The blossoms are white, tinted with pink, and as they appear before the leaves do, there is nothing to hide them."
Fig. 63.—Almond Trees in Full Bloom.
"Does the nut have a covering?" inquired Mary.
"Yes," replied Uncle John. "When the nut is ripe, the shuck opens gradually, and sometimes the nuts fall out.
"When people have large orchards, they spread pieces of canvas under the trees and then shake them or beat them by means of long poles.
"The nuts that do not fall out of the shucks are obtained by opening the shuck with a knife. The nuts are then dried, and are ready for market."