Growers say the recent storm was just right. There was very little damage to the crops and snow pack was added to the Sierra.
"There's so many different varieties and so many different crops in Fresno County that for the most part there wasn't any issues. We're still waiting to hear if maybe from some specific varieties that there might have been some minor issues," said Ryan Jacobsen with the Fresno County Farm Bureau.
Like most almond growers, Paul Betancourt is a little uneasy this time of year.
"Of course we're a little worried. Bloom is when we sit on pins and needles," said Betancourt.
The blossoms on almond trees are very delicate. Each blossom only lasts three days, so they need to get pollinated in that time and steer clear from heavy rain and wind.
"They're very susceptible to frost, they're very susceptible to mold and fungus. So what we like are 70 degree days full of sunshine," said Betancourt.
At a time like this rain is healthy, but dry periods are also needed so that bees can pollinate important ag crops in the Valley.
"So many of our peaches, plums, nectarines and our almonds are completely dependent upon the services that the bees do in the pollination," said Jacobsen.
Experts say it's the heavy rainfall, lasting several days that does the most damage. The recent rainstorm is considered healthy.
"When we see these one to two day storms, as long as there's not real bad wind and other things that are associated with it, it's a good sign," said Jacobsen.
Most almond growers will keep a close eye on the weather for the next 10 to 14 days until blossom season is over. Tree fruit growers will keep watch until the end of March.
