Al-baha: The first blossoms of almond trees in Al-Baha Region each year paint a panoramic scene that captivates onlookers, spreading across the slopes of its mountains, resembling scattered pearls toward the end of winter. According to Saudi Press Agency, farmers have reintroduced the cultivation of the almond tree, long associated with human memory as a cultural and social heritage passed down through generations in several governorates of the region. Director of the Al-Baha Branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Eng. Fahd Al-Zahrani, stated that almonds are considered one of the most promising crops with high economic value. Almond trees fall within the category of crops well-suited to the mountainous environment and agricultural terraces that characterize Al-Baha Region. He indicated that the crop represents one of the region's comparative advantages, benefiting from favorable climatic conditions and terrain. Almond cultivation is widespread across the governorates of Al-Baha, and the crop contributes to diversifying the agricultural base and achieving sustainability in farming, he noted. Eng. Al-Zahrani also said the region cultivated with almonds in Al-Baha stands at approximately 67 hectares, with total production reaching about 241 tons of green fruit and 107 tons of kernels, at an average yield of 3.6 tons per hectare of green fruit. Moreover, he pointed out that the ministry has been keen to provide direct support to farmers, including the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program (Saudi Reef) and agricultural extension services, to encourage agricultural investment in crops with comparative advantage as part of its commitment to strengthening investment in such crops. A farmer from the region spoke to the Saudi Press Agency about almond cultivation, saying: 'It is a demanding task that requires care and cleanliness, and it takes a long time before the fruits appear and harvesting begins.' He noted that the almond tree withstands diverse climates and does not require l arge amounts of irrigation. Almond trees begin to blossom with white flowers in February, producing tender fruits that gradually harden. By July, the fruit becomes firm with a solid core, passing through a stage known as 'lubab.' Moreover, he said people often consume the fruit before full ripening, while after full maturity, the seeds (lubab) are used. He also emphasized that almond trees yield good economic returns for farmers, with each tree producing about 4 to 5 kilograms per season, he noted. Al-Baha is considered an agricultural oasis, hosting a wide variety of trees and plants thanks to its fertile soil, abundant water, and moderate climate in both summer and winter. The almond tree is particularly known for its resilience to different climatic conditions and low water consumption, thriving naturally as its production season coincides with the end of winter, a period marked by heavy rainfall in the mountainous areas.