All About Peach Season in Fredericksburg, TX
Move over, Georgia! Texas peach season is upon us and there is nothing quite like a juicy Texas peach. Fredericksburg, located just west of Austin and north of San Antonio, is informally known as the Peach Capital of Texas – and for good reason. The region’s elevation, temperature, and nutrient-rich soil result in delicious peaches, making this small town a popular summer vacation destination.
When is peach season?
In Texas, the peach season usually starts in mid-May and ends in August. Just like the 2021 peach season, the 2022 season will be slightly delayed, but fortunately for peach lovers, this means the crop in Fredericksburg will be extra plentiful and delicious.
Why does a delayed season result in better peaches? During the winter months, peach trees become dormant and are comfortable in temperatures below 45 degrees. This period of dormancy allows peach trees to rest. The right amount of rest yields the perfect crop! When the peach trees wake from their winter slumber they are refreshed and ready to produce the juicy fruit we all know and love.
Where Are the Peaches Grown?
There are many people and places that contribute to an abundant Fredericksburg peach season. Route 290 is dotted with several of Fredericksburg’s family-owned farms and orchards that grow a variety of clingstone and freestone peaches.
Jenschke Orchard is the perfect place for you and your family to partake in “pick-your-own” peaches on a sunny summer afternoon. A little farther down Route 290 in Stonewall, you’ll find other popular peach pit-stops, including Gold Orchards, Burg’s Corner, and Wahl’s Peaches, which are three other local favorites.
Most of these orchards offer more than just peaches; you can often find an excellent selection of locally grown blackberries, strawberries, and plums, as well as a seasonal vegetable selection.
What do they do with all those peaches?
Canned, caramelized, baked and brandied. There are many ways to utilize this succulent, fuzzy fruit. With so many peaches produced during the season, many local businesses take unique spins on classic peach recipes.
For something sweet, head over to Engel Orchard, five miles east of Stonewall, for some seriously delicious peach ice cream. Hungry for peach cobbler? You’re in luck. Many of the local orchards bake these crumbly delights, including Vogel Orchard and Gold Orchard.
If jelly is more your jam, stop by Fischer & Weiser’s Das Peach Haus where you can find jarred peach preserves to bring home as souvenirs. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and make your own peach creations, check out Vogel Orchard’s Recipes for classics like spiced peaches and mouthwatering novelties like dessert peach enchiladas and peach butter chipotle chocolate brownies!
Where Can I Celebrate Texas Peach Season?
In 2022, the 61st annual Stonewall Peach Jamboree and Rodeo will take place on Friday, June 17th, and Saturday, June 18th at the Stonewall Chamber of Commerce in Stonewall. This peach festival is just a 14-minute drive from Fredericksburg and features peach eating contests, peach judging, music, buying delicious peaches and more. Peach growers in Fredericksburg are already saying this is one of the best crops they’ve seen in years!
You can also find the region’s best peaches at the Fredericksburg Farmers Market, which is held every Thursday from 4-7 PM from April to August on West Main Street. While you’re there, be sure to shop for artisan cheeses, local baked goods, fresh fruits, and locally-grown vegetables.
Hungry to experience the sweetness of Texas peach season? Book your cottage, cabin or ranch home vacation rental with Gastehaus Schmidt.