New Jersey’s ready for peach season

It’s almost peach time in the Garden State.

New Jersey’s peach deal kicks off with clingstone varieties in mid- to late June, according to a news release from the New Jersey Peach Promotion Council, with yellow and white freestones and doughnut peaches following in July.

The state has about 75 peach growers and 5,000 acres of orchards, according to the release.

“Our New Jersey climate and soil are ideal for peach trees,” Santo John Maccherone, chairman of the New Jersey Peach Promotion Council, said in the release. 

“They require 600-900 hours at a temperature of 45 degrees (F) or less, but above 10 degrees. To mature well, peaches prefer clear, warm weather — 75 degrees is ideal.”

Jersey peaches are available in supermarkets, specialty food stores, farmers markets, roadside stands and pick-your-own operations, according to the release.

Many farmers markets in the state hold Peach Party days with peach samplings and peach-themed treats or activities, according to the release.

More information on the state’s crop is on the peach council's website.