ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Marylanders are encouraged to look for all the fresh, local produce available at farmers markets, farmstands and grocery stores as summer winds down.
“The markets are filled with most of the summer crops and now the fall crops are coming in as well,” said Secretary of Agriculture Joe Bartenfelder. “That means late melons are joined by early apples, while the tomatoes keep producing and sweet corn is still available.”
According to the Aug. 27 Crop Progress and Condition report from the Maryland office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, about 25 percent of the state peach crop has yet to be picked, and apples are 30 percent harvested now. The apples are rated 91 percent good to excellent in quality at this point. USDA also projects an increase in the peach and apple crops this year. The peach crop is expected to be 7.8 million pounds, and the apple crop is expected to be 46 million pounds — up from 38.4 million pounds in 2016.
The early varieties of apples in Maryland include Rambos, Ginger Golds, Galas and Honey Crisps. Later in September, producers will begin harvesting Red and Gold Delicious, Crispins and Empires. Look for them to be firm when you’re picking out the freshest.
Here are some things to remember about Maryland peaches. First, a tasty ripe peach is soft to the touch, blemish free, and has a sweet, fragrant aroma. Second, Refrigeration will extend the life of peaches for 1 or 2 days. The ideal temperature for ripe peaches is 33 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
There are three basic types of peaches:
- Clingstone — flesh clings tightly to the pit. Generally better for cooking and canning.
- Freestone — flesh separates from the pit. Good for eating fresh, as desserts, for cooking and freezing.
- Semi-freestone — flesh is a little harder to separate from pit. Good for eating fresh, as desserts, for cooking and freezing.
Maryland peaches and apples are available at farmers markets, farmstands, pick your own farming operations and grocery stores — not to mention in recipes at restaurants featuring local ingredients. Visit MarylandsBest.net to find sources of local peaches and apples.
— Maryland Department of Agriculture