Al-Baha, November 14, 2024 – The agricultural nurseries scattered throughout the Al-Baha region are far more than just commercial enterprises; they serve as vital cultural and environmental assets, significantly enhancing the region's aesthetic appeal while promoting ecological balance. These nurseries, which flourish as the planting season begins and favorable weather conditions settle in, are home to a diverse range of flora, including ornamental flowers, shrubs, annuals, ground covers, and cacti, adding to the region’s natural beauty.
Dr. Ali Al-Sawat, the Secretary of the Al-Baha Region, emphasized the importance of these nurseries not only in terms of producing seedlings and flowers but also in preserving the genetic characteristics of indigenous plant species. The nurseries focus on cultivating robust, disease-free seedlings, carefully tailored to thrive in the local environment. This attention to environmental harmony ensures the sustainability and long-term success of the region’s greenery.
Al-Baha Municipality, through its environmental architecture agency, plays a pivotal role in overseeing and managing 11 nurseries located within the region and its municipalities. These nurseries collectively span an impressive 190,000 square meters, housing 50,000 trees, 60,000 shrubs, and over 1.1 million flowers. The species cultivated in these nurseries include juniper, tamarisk, olive trees, and other native flora, contributing to the area’s rich biodiversity. This year alone, afforestation efforts led to the planting of 87,841 trees, 133,089 shrubs, and a vast 209,692 square meters of grass-covered areas, complemented by 1.77 million flowers. These initiatives play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological stability and aesthetic value of the region.
The agricultural nurseries of Al-Baha have grown in significance, with some even transforming into popular tourist destinations. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, a local nursery owner, shared that these nurseries now offer educational experiences for visitors, teaching them about various tree species, the significance of agriculture, and best practices for home gardening and personal farming. Such initiatives help foster a greater appreciation for nature and environmental sustainability among the public.
Additionally, women have emerged as primary purchasers of seedlings in the region, according to farmer Mohammed Al-Zahrani. He noted that women particularly value the aesthetic, aromatic, and health benefits these plants provide for homes. The nurseries in Al-Baha actively compete by offering a wide variety of fruit trees, taking advantage of the fertile soil conditions in the area. Popular fruit trees include oranges, tangerines, lemons, mangoes, papayas, figs, pomegranates, guavas, and different types of grapes. Nurseries also offer almond and olive trees, as well as ornamental trees and seasonal flowers known for their fragrance, beauty, and visual appeal.
For Azza Al-Khathami, a successful local farmer, the agricultural nursery business started as a hobby in the governorate and has since flourished. With more than 1,000 seedlings in her collection, she turned her passion for plants into a thriving business. Beginning with a single greenhouse constructed from scrap iron, she now operates 11 greenhouses, showcasing the potential for growth and success within the agricultural sector.
This blend of environmental stewardship, economic growth, and cultural education has positioned the agricultural nurseries in Al-Baha as key contributors to the region's sustainable development, providing both economic opportunities and a deeper connection to nature for local communities.
