Peach season in Oregon is a cherished time for fruit lovers and farm enthusiasts alike. The sweet, juicy flavors of freshly picked peaches are a summer highlight. However, the success of peach crops is heavily influenced by weather conditions, especially during the critical winter months. This year, our U-Pick season at Draper Girls Country Farm will be notably affected due to the unusually cold weather we experienced in January.
The Impact of Weather on Peach Growth
Peach trees require a delicate balance of cold and warm weather to thrive. During the winter, they need a certain number of chilling hours to break dormancy and produce healthy buds. However, extremely cold temperatures can damage the buds and affect the overall yield. This January, we faced an unexpected cold snap that significantly impacted our peach trees. As a result, our U-Pick peach session for August will be minimal, with only one variety available for u-pick in the orchard.
Freestone vs. Cling Peaches: Understanding the Differences
When it comes to peaches, there are two main types: freestone and cling.
Freestone Peaches: As the name suggests, the pit of a freestone peach easily separates from the flesh. This makes them ideal for fresh eating, baking, and canning. The flesh is usually firmer and less fibrous, providing a more pleasant texture.
Cling Peaches: The flesh of cling peaches clings tightly to the pit, making them a bit more challenging to prepare.
Best Peach Varieties for Baking and Canning
For baking and canning, freestone peaches are generally preferred due to their ease of preparation. Some of the best varieties include:
Reliance: Known for its hardiness and ability to withstand colder climates, the Reliance peach is a reliable choice for Oregon growers. It’s a freestone variety, making it perfect for baking and canning. This year, it will be our sole variety available for U-Pick at Draper Girls Country Farm.
Elberta: Another excellent freestone variety, Elberta peaches are known for their large size, firm flesh, and superb flavor. They are great for pies, cobblers, and canning.
Red Haven: This popular freestone peach is known for its sweet, juicy flesh and beautiful red blush. It’s a versatile variety that works well for fresh eating, baking, and canning.
What to Expect This Season at Draper Girls Country Farm
Due to the cold weather in January, our U-Pick peach season will be short and limited to the Reliance variety. While we will have fewer peaches available for U-Pick, we are dedicated to ensuring that our customers still get to enjoy delicious fruit. Most of our peaches will be reserved for sale in our Country Store and at the Farmers Market to ensure everyone has a chance to savor this summer delight.
The Reliance peach, being a freestone variety, is perfect for your baking and canning needs. Whether you’re making peach pies, preserves, or just enjoying them fresh, you’ll appreciate the ease and flavor of this hardy variety.
Visit Us for More Than Just Peaches
Even with a shorter U-Pick peach season, there's plenty to enjoy at Draper Girls Country Farm. Our Country Store is stocked with fresh fruits, jams, jellies, canned goods, and unique gift items. We also offer non-pasteurized cider and hard cider to keep you refreshed during your visit.
We invite you to follow along with our updates on social media to stay informed about the latest happenings and availability. Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we navigate this challenging season together.
Warm regards,
The Draper Girls
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