“We should have pretty much a full crop,” says Robert Von Rohr of Sunny Valley International. “A couple of the early varieties of peaches were hit a little bit with some cold, but once we get into June, we should be in full swing with peaches.”
Next week’s volume should start with light supplies, which is already a marked change from last year when peaches out of the Southern region were frozen out. (The region was hit with a warm spell in February which pushed trees to bloom early, and then early March saw freezing temperatures damage the crop.)
Measured start
“This year will be a slow start with some of the earlier varieties,” says Von Rohr. “The sizes will be on small to medium sized peaches to start, and then ramp up quickly depending on the particular variety of peaches.” He also notes that the peaches look very good thanks to Mother Nature and the farming practices of Dixie Belle. “There was plenty of moisture and chill hours this year, so the fruit on the trees looks outstanding so far. Sizing is also normal,” he adds.
As far as the market for fresh peaches, Von Rohr believes demand will be strong for South Carolina peaches. Sunny Valley ships its fruit to customers throughout the East Coast and Midwest regions, as well as Canada. “Our main competition for South Carolina peaches is from Georgia and California. The New Jersey season will overlap South Carolina in July and continue into the month of September."
Peak volume on the Dixie Belle peaches is anticipated from mid-June through all of July. “That’s when there will be varieties with heavier volume,” he says.
For more information:
Robert Von Rohr
Sunny Valley International
Tel: +1 (856) 881-0200
rvonrohr@sunnyint.com
www.sunnyint.com