California farmers are devoting more land to pistachios. They are drought-tolerant for the region and remain in high demand, especially from China. California produced nearly $3 billion in pistachios last year. It now surpasses Iran as the top exporter of this nut.

Pistachio trees are less water-intensive and more drought-resistant than almonds. They also have a longer lifespan and don’t rely on bee pollination. This makes them an ideal crop for California’s climate.

California pistachio acreage is set to expand while almond and walnut orchards stabilize or decline due to water scarcity and rising costs. Pistachios generate greater returns, adding substantial value to California’s agriculture. However, ongoing groundwater restrictions may affect some orchards in the future. California farmers hope to sustain demand and avoid an oversupply.

Read more on California pistachios here.