Southern Illinois orchards enjoy a better peach season

By Andi Anderson

Peach production in southern Illinois orchards has improved this summer after a challenging previous year. Larger orchards in deep southern Illinois, such as Flamm Orchards, have seen a significant rebound.

Austin Flamm, who runs Flamm Orchards near Cobden, reports a 100% production rate this year compared to last year's devastating 10% due to a cold spell. The plentiful crop even required some trees to be trimmed back.

Rendleman Orchards in Alto Pass experienced a similar successful season. However, Eckert’s Inc. in Belleville faced another challenging year with about 50% production.

President Chris Eckert attributes the decline to subzero temperatures in January and a frost in March during the blooming period.

This marks the second consecutive down year for Eckert's, raising concerns about the financial impact and potential trends in weather patterns.

The USDA's crop insurance program for peaches has been essential for growers like Eckert, preventing business-ending financial losses due to crop failures.

Raghela Scavuzzo, executive director of the Illinois Specialty Growers Association, highlights the variability in orchard success, with some smaller orchards in Calhoun County experiencing total losses due to a late freeze.

Despite these challenges, consumers in southern Illinois will notice more peaches at local markets and grocery stores this year. Prices have returned to normal levels after last summer's increase.

Flamm reports a 30% price hike last year due to short supply, while Eckert's prices rose by 20%. This year, prices have dipped about 15%, reflecting a more abundant peach supply in South Carolina and Georgia as well.

Peach season began a few weeks earlier than usual, starting in June instead of July, thanks to warm weather. Although this isn't the earliest start, it's among the earliest crops picked at both Flamm’s and Eckert’s orchards.

The season is expected to extend until the end of August, providing a longer period for consumers to enjoy fresh, local peaches.

Overall, southern Illinois orchards have a brighter outlook this summer, with increased peach production bringing relief and optimism to local growers and communities.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-adyna