Life’s a peach in Fredericksburg

When it comes to peaches, some of the sweetest and best tasting can be found right here in Gillespie County. And that’s due in large part to the minerals and micronutrients of the Hill Country soil. The 1,700-foot altitude temperature variation helps intensify the flavor of the fruit.

04/26/2023 12:24 PM (update 07/21/2023 09:52 AM)

Fredericksburg peaches are widely sought-after because of the elevation and climate of Gillespie County, which helps produce an abundant and flavorful peach crop. – Photo courtesy of ATPI

Gillespie County produces roughly onefourth of all the peaches produced in Texas on about 600 acres that are dedicated to peach growing.

Blooms usually show up around mid-March, and the earliest peaches in this part of the state begin to ripen in May. By June, the peach harvest is in full swing, and roadside stands become a hive of activity.

Peach lovers come from around the state to Gillespie County to buy their peaches market fresh. Some local peaches are sold outside the county at farmers’ markets in the cities, including Austin and San Antonio.

In addition, peaches are sold at the weekly Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market.

Varieties

The many varieties grown in Gillespie County fall into two general types: “freestone” and “clingstone.” These names describe the peach, as the freestone peach flesh readily separates from the pit, while the clingstone flesh clings tightly to the pit.

Both types are delicious for eating, while freestones usually are preferred for freezing since the flesh separates easily from the pit. Clingstones are best for canning because of their firm flesh.

Peaches harvested in May are the “clingstone” type, while early-June peaches are “semi-freestone” and late-June through the end-of-season varieties are “freestone.”

Nature’s production

In addition to a climate that features warm summers and mild winters, the area’s geography and topography contribute to successful harvests. When rainfall is sufficient, the loam sand and red clay subsoil serve as an effective reservoir to preserve moisture during dry periods.

But Mother Nature can be fickle with the crop. If the area gets a strong frost once blooms have set, much of the crop can be destroyed. Spring hail storms also can be destructive to the crop.

The sight of blossoming trees is another attraction for visitors in the early springtime.

More information on peaches is available from Gillespie County Horticulture Extension Agent Elizabeth McMahon.

The office is located at the Gillespie County AgriLife Extension Building, 38 Business Court. The telephone number there is 830-997-3452.

Information is also available from the Hill Country Fruit Council website at www.texaspeaches.com.

Buyers’ Guide

When buying peaches, look for ones that are fairly firm or just becoming a bit soft. The skin color between the red areas should be yellow or at least creamy.

Avoid hard peaches with a greenish color — they are probably immature and won’t ripen properly once plucked from the tree. Soft fruits are ideal for ice cream or jam, but should be used quickly.

The best way to buy Gillespie County peaches is direct from grower stands and markets located throughout the area.

Roadside stands offer “just picked” peaches. To let visitors experience more of their favorite treat, some peach growers allow their customers to enter the orchard and pick their own fruit.

Peach ripening schedule (approximate dates)
May 10-25 — Spring Gold, Regal, Flavorich
May 20-June 5 — June Gold, Gold Prince
June 5-15 — Sentinel, Gala, Southern Pearl (white)
June 10-27 — Harvester, Cary Mac
June 20-30 — Majestic
June 25-July 12 — Loring, Bounty
June 27-July 15 — Redglobe
July 10-25 — Dixieland
July 15-30 — Redskin
July 25-Aug. 5 — Jersey Queen, Elberta
Aug. 1-12 — Flame Prince, O’Henry
Aug. 10-25 — Parade, Big Red