Question
Hi,
How can I sprout Almonds, And how can I grow it?
Will it grow outdoors in Texas?
                                       Thanks

Answer
Hi Tracy,
Thanx for your question.  I don't recommend growing almonds from the seeds you buy at the store because these are the result of hybridization and chances are, the resulting tree will not bear the same kind of nuts as you ate.  The quality most likely, will not be as good as the original parents due to the hybridization.  Additionally, it will take 5 years or so for the tree to bear.  If you still want to try, take the almond and plant it about 1 inch deep in a pot of moist (not soggy) potting soil).  Place inside a plastic baggie and keep in the refrigerator (not freezer) for 90 days.  After that, take the pot out of the plastic baggie and place the pot in a warm place and keep the soil moist.  Germination will take several weeks.  Once the seed has germinated it must be exposed to strong light such as a sunny window in an eastern or southern exposure or underneath 40 watt shoplights, no more than 8 inches above.  Once the seedling has a second set of true leaves it will be ready to transplant outdoors.  You'll have to harden it off or acclimate it by placing it in the shade (as long as there is no danger of frost) for about 10 days and then plant the seedling where it will get direct sunlight all day long.  Almonds should do well in all but the Texas Panhandle.  There are some cultivars that will grow in the colder climates but you'll have to buy those through the Internet or at a local nursery.  If you live in West Texas, the tree is going to require regular watering during the long periods without rain.  I hope this helps.
Tom