East Texas peach producers are entering the current season with cautious optimism following several challenging years. Larry Stein, a professor with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services, highlights the importance of a successful harvest: "It's been a tough three years, so we really need a good crop to move ahead."
The region faced adversities such as drought and abnormal heat in 2022, and insufficient cold temperatures in 2023, impacting fruit production. Hunter Sattler of Winona Orchards reflects on the difficulties faced, expressing hope for the current season due to adequate chill hours and significant blooms. Despite concerns about the impact of recent freezes, there is hope that this will not detrimentally affect the crop. "We're cautiously optimistic that it's going to be a good year," Stein remarked, with the upcoming spring storms being the next hurdle for the peach harvest.
Source: aol.com