Nopalry

A nopalry is a cultivated planting or garden of nopal cacti, specifically those of the genus Opuntia, primarily grown for agricultural or horticultural purposes. These purposes can include the production of edible pads (nopales), fruits (tunas), forage for livestock, and the extraction of other valuable products such as dyes or mucilage. A nopalry is distinct from a naturally occurring stand of nopal cacti in that it involves deliberate cultivation, management, and harvesting of the plants. Factors like spacing, irrigation (if needed), pest control, and harvesting techniques are actively managed to optimize yield and quality of the desired product(s). Nopalries are particularly common in regions of Mexico, the southwestern United States, and other arid and semi-arid areas where nopal cacti thrive. The scale of a nopalry can range from small family gardens to large commercial operations.