In the wake of experiencing a complete decimation of peach crops in western Massachusetts due to subzero temperatures in February 2023, orchards in the region are now reporting promising signs for this year's yield. Tom Bashista, the proprietor of Bashista Orchards and Cider Mill in Southampton, noted the peach buds have survived a relatively mild winter without prematurely opening during a January thaw. "We were lucky. Everything stayed asleep all winter long and now everything is just starting to swell, and give signs of life," Bashista remarked.
Similarly, Clarkdale Farms in Deerfield, which faced a total peach crop loss last year, is cautiously optimistic about this season's potential. "Buds look good so far, but [we] still have to make it through bloom and fruit set," stated Ben Clark. The previous year's losses were attributed to an inability of the buds to acclimate following a brief warm period in January 2023, before being hit by extreme cold.
Parlee Farms in Belchertown also recounted a 100% loss of peach and nectarine crops last year due to unprecedented low temperatures. However, with the trees themselves remaining unharmed, a normal peach yield is anticipated this summer. Timothy Smith from Apex Orchards highlighted the silver lining of last year's freeze, suggesting the forced dormancy could lead to a robust yield, barring any late frost events.
Source: nhpr.org