Q.My flowering almond bushes are full of stalks, few buds and just not doing well, after 5 years of trying.
The almond bushes are in full sun, I’m not sure how to fertilize them. I had several branches of beautiful flowers on the ends of the stalks, but certainly not what I expected. I think I need to prune and cut away old branches, but I don’t know for sure..

Certified GKH Gardening Expert
If you can include photos, then that will help me to give you the best advice possible.
For now, though, I would be inclined to say that the tree is in need of fertilization and pruning. A photo will help me to confirm whether it is this, or possibly an infection.
For now, this article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/flowering-almond/growing-flowering-almonds.htm