Al-Baha Nurseries: A Blossoming Landscape.

Al-Baha: The agricultural nurseries scattered across the Al-Baha region are not merely commercial ventures; they are cultural and environmental assets, contributing significantly to the region's aesthetic appeal and ecological balance. As the planting season commences and weather conditions improve, these nurseries showcase diverse flora, including ornamental flowers, shrubs, annuals, ground covers, and cacti. According to Saudi Press Agency, the Secretary of the Al-Baha Region, Dr. Ali Al-Sawat, emphasized that the nurseries aim not only to produce seedlings and flowers but also to preserve the genetic characteristics of local plant species. They focus on producing robust, disease-free seedlings that thrive in the local environment. Al-Baha Municipality, through its environmental architecture agency, meticulously plans, manages and oversees 11 nurseries in Al-Baha and its municipalities. These nurseries collectively house 50,000 trees, 60,000 shrubs, and 1,100,000 flowers over an expansive area of 190,000 s quare meters. Species cultivated include juniper, tamarisk, and olive. This year, afforestation efforts resulted in planting 87,841 trees and 133,089 shrubs, with grass-covered areas spanning 209,692 square meters and boasting 1,772,281 flowers. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, a nursery owner in Al-Baha, revealed that some nurseries have evolved into tourist destinations. These nurseries educate visitors about various tree species and the importance of agriculture and impart best practices for home gardening and personal farming. Farmer Azza Al-Khathami also shared her successful journey in the field of agricultural nurseries. Beginning as a hobby in the governorate, she expanded her collection to over 1,000 seedlings, transforming her passion into a thriving business. Starting with a single greenhouse made from scrap iron, she now operates 11 greenhouses. According to farmer Mohammed Al-Zahrani, women are the primary purchasers of seedlings and appreciate their aesthetic, aromatic, and health benefits for ho mes. The nurseries in the Al-Baha region actively compete for clientele by offering a variety of fruit trees supported by fertile soil conditions, such as oranges, tangerines, lemons, mangoes, papayas, figs, pomegranates, guavas, and diverse types of grapes. Additionally, they provide almond and olive trees, ornamental trees, and seasonal and wild plants and flowers known for their fragrance, beauty, and striking appeal.