California Walnut Industry Anticipates Strong 2025 Crop Following Ideal Spring Conditions

In the midst of favorable growing conditions, California walnut growers are reporting outstanding early-season conditions that point to a positive outlook for the 2025 crop, according to industry experts monitoring the state’s orchards. 

Following three consecutive years of average to above-average rainfall and snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains, California walnut orchards are beginning the growing season with adequate surface water and replenished soil profiles. These favorable conditions, coupled with ideal spring temperatures, have created an environment for strong bloom and early shoot development. 

“Things are shaping up to be a tremendously good start to California's walnut growing season," said Davin Norene, owner of Big Time Farming and walnut growing specialist. “We are predicting good things ahead of this year's crop.”

Early walnut varieties began bud break in mid-April, with all varieties, including Chandler, now showing strong shoot growth throughout California's prime growing regions. The orchards are currently in a critical growth phase, setting the stage for healthy nut development throughout the season.

"The exceptional start to this growing season is a welcome and energizing reprieve after navigating a series of tough seasons that demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of California's walnut industry," said Robert Verloop, executive director and CEO of the California Walnut Board & Commission. "This spring, growers are well-positioned to capitalize on ideal soil moisture and perfect temperatures, setting the stage for strong yield and quality in the 2025 crop."

For more information on the California walnut industry, visit walnuts.org.