The arrival of Saad Al-Saud: the end of winter and the beginning of the planting season and spring
The Astronomical Observatory in Hawtat Sudair announced the arrival of the "Saad Al-Saud" , a time eagerly awaited by the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula and farmers alike, as it marks the celestial announcement of the end of the harsh winter cold and the beginning of milder weather. This mansion is the third of the four "Saad" mansions and the last of the Scorpion season, during which the moon is present for 13 days, bringing with it the promise of spring.
Astronomical heritage and the status of Saad Al-Saud among the Arabs
of Saad Al-Saud holds a prominent place in the popular and cultural heritage of the Kingdom and the Arabian Gulf. This star is associated with ancient Arabic proverbs that accurately describe environmental transformations, perhaps the most famous being the saying: “When Saad Al-Saud rises, skins soften, all rigidity melts, every branch turns green, every hidden thing spreads, and people dislike sitting in the sun.” These expressions reflect a radical change in nature, as plant sap begins to circulate within the trunks of trees, a phenomenon known locally as “the water circulates in the branch,” thus reviving plants that had dried up or become dormant during the winter.
Climatic characteristics and spring equinox
The observatory explained that this lunar mansion contains three bright stars, and its appearance this year coincides with mid-March, coinciding with the sun's presence in the constellation Pisces. This period is characterized by an important astronomical phenomenon: the near-equal length of day and night, which heralds the spring equinox. Temperatures begin to rise gradually, averaging between 17 and 28 degrees Celsius, and the earth turns green, trees fully foliage, and flowers bloom, especially in years with good rainfall, making it an ideal time for outings and enjoying nature.
The importance of the Saad Al-Saud season for farmers
The arrival of Saad Al-Saud marks the beginning of the spring agricultural season. Agricultural experts and the astronomical observatory advise farmers to take advantage of this period to fertilize crops and trees to promote their growth. It is also the ideal time to plant various crops such as late-maturing clover, beans, cowpeas, and cucurbits. Existing crops like wheat and barley require more intensive irrigation due to increased evaporation rates with the warmer weather.
Date palm pollination season
The most notable feature of this period in the Saudi agricultural sector is the start of the date palm pollination season. Experts emphasize the importance of prompt pollination and avoiding delays to ensure crop quality. They also stress the need to protect the pollen from strong winds that could cause it to be blown away, and to repeat the process immediately after pollination if rain falls, to guarantee successful fertilization.
Weather phenomena and bird migration
Despite the generally mild weather, this transitional period is not without its share of weather fluctuations known as "Sarayat" in some parts of the Gulf. These fluctuations can include the formation of cumulonimbus clouds and strong southerly winds that stir up dust and sand. In terms of biodiversity, this time coincides with the breeding and mating season for many resident wild birds, as well as the beginning of the reverse migration for other birds such as geese and cranes, adding a vibrant and beautiful dimension to the Kingdom's skies during this period.
