Peaches: A Summer Tradition
In Texas, nothing screams summer more than biting into a Texas peach! June – August is prime peach season in the Hill Country! For a fresh experience for your family, drive north to Fredericksburg and Stonewall and check out this fun area and pick up some local peaches!
Varieties:
There are over 25 varieties of peaches with names such as Harvester, Majestic, Red Globe, Dixiland, and Loring. You may find peaches simply labelled by 3 types:
- Clingstone = Most notably yellow and white, these generally ripen in May. The name aptly describes the peach flesh clinging to the pit, make it difficult and messy to eat. Clingstone peaches are typically smaller, perfect for canning and jellies.
- Semi-Freestone = This hybrid peach isn’t quite as pit clingy and usually ripen in early June. While more difficult to find, semi-cling peaches are good both fresh and canned.
- Freestone = This ‘all-purpose’ variety is convenient as the pit literally falls out of the peach once it’s sliced. Freestone peaches are typically larger than clingstone, and generally harvested mid-season.
Popular Locations:
Below are the larger growers, but there are many smaller ones – just look for stands along the side of the road!
Jenschke Orchards Pick your own peaches!
Helpful Tips:
- Look for cream or yellow colors as indication of ripeness and flavor, not necessarily the reddish peach color, according to the Hill Country Fruit Council.
- Peaches can be held at room temperature until soft enough to eat, and then refrigerated for up to two weeks.
- Peaches don’t technically ripen after harvest; that is, they won’t continue to develop sugar content. They’ll soften up if placed in a paper bag.
- A firm-ripe peach, which gives only slightly when gently squeezed, is best for canning, freezing, or storing.
- 3 to 4 medium sized peaches equal a pound.
- Growers frequently sell their peaches in 1/2 bushel or smaller containers.
Fredricksburg & Stonewall:
Fredericksburg is a charming town known for its rich German heritage, beautiful scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. Just down the road is Stonewall, home of Lyndon B. Johnson. Both of these towns are teeming with peaches, history and beauty!
Other San Antonio Springtime Information
-
Texas Bluebonnets
South Texas and the Hill Country regions come alive every spring with a burst of colors that captivate both residents and visitors alike. From early April through May, vast landscapes are painted in shades of blue, red, and pink, signaling the much-anticipated arrival of the Texas bluebonnet season. Read More
-
Hiking & Biking Trails
Biking and hiking trails in San Antonio are plentiful! Read More
-
San Antonio Fiesta! 2024
Fiesta San Antonio: Parades, parties and more! Find helpful tips and a list of major events along with the history of this event. Read More
