Discover When Peaches Are in Peak Season Across the U.S.

Peaches are a perennial summer favorite throughout much of the United States. They have sweet, juicy flesh that is enjoyable on its own. But they are also a star in pies, other baked goods, jams, and grilled. So, how do you know when the absolute best peaches are available? You can keep hitting up your local farmer’s market every week until the peach stands finally appear. Or, you can dive into our handy guide. We gathered information about the peak season for many top peach-growing states. That way, you know when to start hoarding peaches!

Georgia

Georgia is famously known as the “Peach State.” It boasts a long and illustrious history of growing this tasty fruit. Georgia’s peach season typically begins mid-May and runs through August. Visitors and locals can start buying peaches by the crate at most orchards, roadside stands, and farmer’s markets. There are also many themed festivals to highlight the beloved fruit.  

Flordadawn is a good early-season variety, and Fairtime rounds out the end of the season. Additional local varieties may include Contender, China Pearl, Springprince, and Regal.

South Carolina

Since South Carolina shares a similar climate with Georgia, they also contribute extensively to the U.S. peach yield. Its peach season typically starts in mid-June and extends into August. During this time, the region showcases an array of peach varieties, including clingstone, semi-clingstone, and freestone types. 

Popular cultivars grown in South Carolina include the Gold Prince, Winblo, Cresthaven, and Big Red. However, those are only a few of the dozens of possible varieties. Reach out to local orchards to find what varieties they grow.

California

California is a prominent peach-growing state. In 2018, it produced the majority of retail peaches in the United States. Its delicious peaches are available from April to October, with the peak occurring in August. The state celebrates the lengthy season with ample festivals, peach-themed races, and other fun events.

The region grows clingstone and freestone, though each is available during a slightly different season. Popular peach varieties in the state include the Rich Lady, Snow Giant, Autumn Flame, and Elegant Lady.

Michigan

While California dominates the peach industry, Michigan is also a prominent peach-growing state. Its peach season typically spans from July to September. During this time, the state’s orchards grow an impressive amount of peach cultivars.

When you head to your local U-Pick orchard or farmer’s market, look for Red Haven, Flamin’ Fury, and Stellar. You won’t be disappointed!

New Jersey

Known as the “Garden State,” New Jersey has a rich agricultural heritage and a thriving peach industry. The time to enjoy New Jersey peaches is from mid-July to early September. The region showcases an impressive selection of peach cultivars. And while there are plenty of orchards to choose from around the state, locals can also plant their own peach trees for an easier harvest.

Some of the tasty varieties in the state include Scarlet Pearl, Blazingstar, White Lady, and John Boy. 

Colorado

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Colorado may not be the first state that comes to find peach production. But the state’s unique climate and elevation contribute to the development of exceptional peaches. Colorado peaches are typically available from July to August, though early harvests may start in June. Pick up your peaches at a regional peach festival, local farmer’s market, U-Pick orchard, or one of the endless roadside stands.

Orchards on the Western Slope produce incredibly flavorful peaches. The most well-known (and highly anticipated) are the Palisade peaches. Keep an eye out for varieties that thrive in the region, including Reliance, Alberta, Ranger, and Polly.

Texas

Texas also produces a significant amount of peaches. The state’s peach season typically runs from mid-May to mid-August, with the peak occurring in July. Plenty of U-Pick orchards offer locals a shot at the freshest harvest. Consider taking a road trip to load up on this flavorful fruit.

Watch for varieties like the June Gold, Harvester, Ranger, and Tropic Beauty. These options (and more) thrive in the state and are prized for their exceptional taste.

Other Growing Regions

The above aren’t the only ones that grow outstanding peaches. Here are a few other states that boast a decent peach harvest. 

• Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania’s peach season typically runs from July to September. But the peak season is in August. Plenty of “Upick” options are available for locals to harvest some of their own peaches in peak season. A few varieties to look for include Harrow Diamond, Red Haven, Saturn, and Garnet Beauty.
• Ohio: Ohio’s peach season runs from July to September, with the peak season in August. The variety that grows best in the state is Red Haven. But it is possible to grow other varieties successfully.
• Washington: Washington is primarily known for its apple orchards, but peaches also grow quite well in the state. The season typically kicks off in mid-July and runs through September. Keep an eye out for some new varieties to experiment with. A few to watch for include Zee Lady, O’Henry, Donut Peach, and Elegant Lady.
• Florida: If you live down south and can’t wait to get your hands on some fresh peaches every year, head to Florida. The Sunshine State has one of the earliest harvesting windows in the United States. Peak season starts in late March or early April and runs through May. But, while the season is short, the selection is fantastic. Try Tropic Beauty, Florida Grande, Tropic Snow, or Florida Prince. 

Peach Facts

Peaches (Prunus persica) originated in China. There, they were revered as a symbol of longevity and immortality. The stonefruit belongs to the Rosaceae (rose) family, which has nearly 5,000 species across 91 genera.

While most of us focus on their intense and delicious flavor, it is worth noting that peaches are packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins E, A, C, and K, potassium, magnesium, folate, copper, dietary fiber, and more. The nutritious punch the beloved fruit carries cannot get overlooked.

There are two primary types of peaches — clingstone and freestone (although semi-clingstone varieties are on the market). Which category a particular variety falls into depends on whether or not it clings to the internal seed, known as a stone. Nectarines also fall under the same species name and have their own varieties and cultivars. 

The number of peach varieties out there is staggering. You can find peaches with white, yellow, or red flesh. There are full-size trees available, as well as container-appropriate dwarf cultivars. So, there truly is something for everyone.

Once you get your fresh peach harvest, it is time to enjoy the bounty! Of course, eating them straight is quite popular. But there is much more to peaches than plain eating. They are perfectly suited for sweet and savory dishes. You can add them to smoothies, salads, or yogurt. Grill them, wrap them with prosciutto, or roast them. Include them in baked breakfast items or desserts, or turn them into one of many delicious jams. If you are into food preservation, feel free to can them for later enjoyment.