HOLLIS, N.H. — It is August and New Hampshire fruit growers are feeling peachy! Peach harvests are happening across the state and make for a great late summer treat.
The peach season in New Hampshire lasts from August into early September. Peaches are a delicate fruit and New Hampshire lies in the northern-most region in which peaches can grow. NH grows some of the hardier varieties of the fruit. According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture there are 114 farms that grow peaches in New Hampshire which cover about 83 acres of land in the state.
Reports from NHFGA growers on this year’s peach crop find that it is smaller than last year’s crop, but still of good quality. Kitt Plummer of Hazelton Orchards in Chester shared, “The crop is a little smaller than last year, but adequate due to cold winter weather and the drought. It seems that the peaches are extra tasty. We have the advantage over supermarket peaches because we can pick them ripe.” Similarly, Chuck and Diane Souther of Apple Hill Farm in Concord said of their farm, “The peach crop is smaller in terms of bushels-per-acre than last year’s bumper crop but given the drought that is probably a good thing. Size is just right and due to the hot weather, the flavor is super.”
Like plums and apricots, peaches are a member of the stone fruit family. Peaches can be enjoyed in host of different ways whether eaten fresh, used in desserts, made into jam or preserves, or so many more! Find some delicious, local peaches during their season!
To find an orchard with peaches near you, check out the NHFGA website at https://www.nhfruitgrowers.
About the New Hampshire Fruit Growers Association:
The NH Fruit Growers Association (NHFGA) is a non-profit association made up of tree fruit farmers, commercial, and supporting members who share a passion for New Hampshire-grown apples, peaches, cherries, plums, and pears. Among the association’s approximately 30 member orchards and farms, there’s diversity in size, fruit, and farm products, but they all gladly share the hard work of taking great care to grow quality fresh fruit for their customers. Keep up with NHFGA on Facebook and Instagram (@NHFruitGrowers) for nutrition information, fun facts, recipes, and more!
–New Hampshire Fruit Growers Association