<p>Jack Frost made a visit to California this past week, bringing snow, rain and freezing temperatures. Unlike citrus growers who fret for their crop, almond producers are rejoicing. Almond trees need about 500-600 hours of cold weather between the months of November and mid-January. The cold weather puts them "to sleep" and ensures a successful crop for next year.</p> <p>"If we don't put them to sleep, it's kind of like kids that do an all nighter, they are no good the next day," compared Don Davis, a Delano-McFarland almond grower. The colder weather also benefits consumers, as a bigger crop stabilizes prices and ensures that there is no shortage. Davis said since the demand for almonds is so high now, the almond community is thankful for the hard freeze.</p>