Comparison of yield characteristics of Independence, a self‐compatible almond variety, as affected by presence of honey bee pollinators

Until recently, all the almond varieties grown globally have been self‐incompatible, a fact that drives the interdependent relationship between almond growers and the beekeepers that provide honey bee colonies for pollination. Recently, almond growers have begun a transition to self‐compatible varieties, such as Independence , which do not require genetically distinct pollen from another ‘pollinizer’ variety to produce kernels. This transition is often combined with the assumption that due to the self‐compatible nature of the trees, honey bee colony rentals for pollination can in turn be eliminated by the grower, thereby reducing costs for these orchards. However, the impact of eliminating rented colonies on almond quality and yield is not fully understood. Here, we explore the extent to which yields for Independence variety vary with and without honey bee pollination activity and across different hive stocking densities in almond orchards in the San Joaquin Valley of California. Practical implication . We found that self‐compatible trees that received honey bee pollination show significantly improved nut set and whole tree yields, ultimately resulting in economically meaningful gains to growers. Our economic model suggests specific honey bee hive stocking density recommendations, considering that the surrounding landscape will likely change as the acreages of self‐compatible varieties continue to increase.