Drought shame

Yes, they use water to grow, just like every other fruit and nut plant out there. While they are the second-largest crop by acreage in California (ahead of grapes!), they’re well behind alfalfa and pasture lands in thirstiness. Since we grow 100 percent of the almonds in the United States, they’re a big boon to the state economy. And—oh yeah—they taste good. Hikers and campers count on nuts like almonds for quick energy and high protein. Bakers love them for their beauty on cakes and pastries. Eat your nuts and stop watering that lawn instead.