In the heart of the desert, orchards thrive where one might least expect them. As horticulturist Dave Gleason explains, trees can grow remarkably well in our dry climate if they are given the right amount of water.
Our irrigation begins high in the mountains, where snow and rainfall are collected in reservoirs. The snowmelt slowly makes its way down rivers and into carefully managed farm reservoirs before reaching the orchard trees.
Once the water arrives, precision takes place as each district is allotted a certain amount of water a year. Every orchard has its own needs, and growers calculate precisely how many gallons per minute and per acre are required to keep trees healthy. Our systems are designed to spread that water evenly, so it’s used as efficiently as possible. Farm reservoirs help balance supply and demand, storing water when there’s extra and delivering more when hot summer days call for it.
Water also plays a protective role. When the afternoon sun gets intense, growers sometimes use hydro-cooling, a fine mist release overhead to cool the trees, lower stress, and keep fruit from sunburn.
Every detail, from timing to distribution, matters. That attention to detail is what allows orchards to flourish in a desert climate, producing high-quality fruit we’re proud to share!
