Savor the magic: 6 Alabama peach varieties to try this summer
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Alabama may not be “The Peach State,” but we sure do give them a run for their money!
Summer is peak peach-picking season, and we are all about a juicy peach on a hot day. Over 1,500 acres are used to produce Alabama peaches – and most of that is located in Central Alabama’s own Chilton County.
Alabama’s juiciest peach types
Like most crops, there is a sweet spot of finding your perfect peach. The peach season in Alabama typically lasts from May until August, with different varieties coming in and out of prime harvest.
Peaches are widely split into clingstone and freestone varieties based on how easily the pit separates from the “flesh” of the fruit. Clingstone peaches have pits that are harder to remove cleanly from the rest of the fruit, whereas freestone peaches have pits that are easily detachable when the fruit is cut.
Mid-July sees Alabama into the late season, when clingstone varieties have come and gone and freestone peaches reign. In Chilton County, the “Peach Capital of Alabama,” you may find popular selections such as Jefferson, Augustprince, Flameprince or Monroe.
Late June through August is freestone season, when the peaches with easily separable pits are in season.
There are several different types of peaches to try in Alabama throughout the season! Here are some of our favorites you can check out.
The Augustprince Peach
Did you know that some peaches are man-made? The Augustprince peach was developed by the United States Department of Agriculture and released to the public as recently as 2006!
The Big Red Peach
A freestone variety, the Big Red is one of the last peaches of the season, meaning you may still have a chance to pick a basket up near you!
The Flameprince Peach
Another intriguing science discovery – the Flameprince peach was introduced in 1993 and is self-pollinating! With its firm flesh and large size, they are great choices for making preserves and pies.
The Redhaven Peach
Ripening in mid-season, the redhaven peach is known for its versatility. Great for eating fresh, canning, or baking into dishes, the Redhaven thrives in Alabama climate conditions.
The Winblo Peach
Perhaps the peach that most imagine when they think of the juicy summer treat, the Winblo peach is a freestone fan favorite. Known for its large size and readiness in the mid-season, it’s perfect for a classic Fourth of July snack. Check out these beauties from Reeves Peach Farm in Hartselle.
The Ruston Red Peach
Ruston Red peaches are known for their large size and sweetness on the inside. Check out the beautiful blush color on some Ruston Reds picked from Reeves Peach Farm.
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