As we continue to expand our landscaping, we feel it's important to introduce both native and locally sympathetic fauna.
We hope these little pistachio trees enjoy their new Willcox home.
Family owners, Stacy and Greg Hancock, have always wanted to redevelop their independent motel into a space that’s relaxing close to Willcox’s historic downtown, and this year will see huge changes to the landscaping. After the success of returning asphalt to viable soil, they began with a simple reseeding to help with water soak-away and the beginnings of a native and heat loving grasses bed to complement the already maturing flower and herb beds.
Shaded areas to relax are key to enjoying the outdoors in the high desert and, if trees are used, can significantly help local microclimates.
"As these grow alongside our establishing grasses, they'll provide more and more shade and sound reduction for our guests and visitors." Greg explains. "It's an investment in downtown Willcox's future, too - we really believe in making the efforts to show this city is back better than ever. The fact that we could choose pistachio trees that reflect the amazing pistachio industry in Cochise County makes it all the more sensible a decision."
The Inn’s groundskeeper has been busy planting the young Peters Pistachio (Pistacia vera) to accompany the fruit bearing female counterpart Kerman, and they should quickly become dramatic 15-20′ trees. With some care, they will grow to offer a reflection of the striking shapes and foliage so often seen on drives through south east Arizona.
There are some of the United States’ largest producing pistachio farms in Cochise County, with the golden elevation number being approximately 4,350 feet for the nut variety, and this just so happens to go hand in hand with wine (what a shame!). So, on your next trip to Willcox, why not try something a little different and visit one of our independent farms by asking for a farm tour? Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
- Robbs Family Farm – in operation since 1955 under the same family, you’ll find a warm welcome and fine tasting pistachio nuts. You can also grab a to-go size box at Source of Coffee, our local coffee house.
- Cochise Groves – part of the Golden Rule Vineyards pistachios and wines estate, this family owned pistachio grove have been cared for since 1981. Ask about them when you enjoy a glass of wine at their tasting room in the refurbished Willcox Commercial building on historic Railroad Avenue.
- Delicious Nut – discoverable in the foothills of the Dragoon Mountains, this family pistachio farm focuses on farm-to-table products and vertical integration methodology.