FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 13, 2002
2002 South Carolina Peach Crop---smaller in volume, bigger in taste!
COLUMBIA---Peach season is almost in full swing and growers are hustling to harvest their crop. Because of a variety of reasons, South Carolina peach growers expect a somewhat reduced volume of peaches than earlier anticipated this season.
Cooler than normal early spring temperatures, tree stress caused by heavy bloom set, and the affects of four years of drought have contributed to the somewhat smaller size of peaches reducing overall volume in a major growing area of the state. But even though the output may be reduced, South Carolina peaches are still the best!
Larry Yonce, representing J.W. Yonce and sons, peach growers and peach shippers in Johnston, says, "That just means a greater value for consumers. It’s time to get out and buy South Carolina’s "Tastier" peaches at the supermarket, roadside market, farmers market, or anywhere produce is sold." "Just ask for South Carolina grown," he adds. "By the pound or major quantity, South Carolina Quality peaches are the best."
In 2001,16,000 bearing acres of peach trees produced 100 million pounds of fruit, according to the South Carolina Agricultural Statistics Service. Projected volume for 2002 should exceed the 2001 production level if adequate rainfall arrives in time and the springtime climatic conditions do not further reduce crop volume.
For more information about South Carolina Quality peaches, call Martin Eubanks, senior marketing specialist for the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, 803-734-2200.