All About Peach Season in Fredericksburg, TX
Move over Georgia! Texas peach season is upon us and it may be the best yet. Fredericksburg is informally known as the Peach Capital of Texas. The elevation, temperature, and nutrient rich soil in the region are responsible for the delicious peaches that make Fredericksburg a popular summer vacation destination.
When is peach season?
Peach season usually starts in May and ends in August. The 2021 peach season was delayed by the late winter storm, but fortunately for peach lovers, this means the crop in Fredericksburg will be extra plentiful and delicious. Why? 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. This year, the 60th annual Stonewall Peach Jamboree and Rodeo will begin on June 17th. This peach festival is just a 14-minute drive from Fredericksburg and features peach eating contests, peach judging, music, and more. Peach growers in Fredericksburg are already saying this is the best crop they’ve seen in years!
Where do all the peaches come from?
There are many places and people to thank for an abundant Fredericksburg peach season. Along route 290 are several family owned farms and orchards that offer a variety of clingstone and freestone peaches. At Jenschke Orchard, you and the family can pick your own peaches on a sunny summer afternoon. Most of these orchards offer more than the region’s prized, fuzzy fruit. You’ll find an excellent selection of locally grown blackberries, strawberries, and plums, as well as a seasonal vegetable selection. Further down route 290 in Stonewall you’ll find Gold Orchards, Burg’s Corner, and Wahl’s Peaches, three local favorites. From April to August, Fredericksburg hosts its summer farmer’s market on West Main Street. Every Thursday from 5PM-7PM you can shop artisan cheeses, local baked goods, fresh fruits, and homegrown vegetables.
What do they do with all those peaches?
Canned, caramelized, baked and brandied; peaches don’t stay peaches for long. If you want to taste some Texas peach sweet treats, head over to Engel Orchard for some peach ice cream. To find peach cobbler you won’t have to look very far. Many of the local orchards bake their own crumbly delights, Vogel Orchard and Gold Orchard to name a few. If jelly is more your jam, stop by Fischer & Weiser’s Das Peach Haus where you can find peach preserves to take home as souvenirs. Fredericksburg’s peach harvest has made it a culinary anomaly. To make your own peach creations, check out Vogel Orchard’s Recipes, with delectable classics like spiced peaches and mouthwatering novelties like peach butter chipotle chocolate brownies!
If you want a taste of Texas peach season, book your cottage, cabin or ranch home vacation rental with Gastehaus Schmidt.