1 INTRODUCTION The almond (Prunus dulcis [Mill.] D.A. Webb) is a globally important crop, with the United States alone producing ≈2 million tons of almonds in shells annually.1 In 2023, global almond production was valued at US$82 628 billion, reflecting its growing importance resulting from high consumer demand, particularly in the food and beverage industry, and the increasing preference for plant-based products and nutritional value.2 Implementing modifications in agricultural management...