When summer rolls around in South Carolina, it’s not just about the warm weather and beach trips. It’s also the season for one of the juiciest, most delicious fruits you can find—fresh South Carolina peaches! Whether you’re buying them from a roadside stand, grabbing them at your local supermarket, or even picking them straight from a backyard tree, peaches are a big part of life in the Palmetto State.
But here’s a fun fact that might surprise many people: South Carolina grows more peaches than Georgia! Yes, you read that right. Even though Georgia proudly calls itself “The Peach State,” South Carolina is actually producing more of this sweet fruit.
A Long Love Story with Peaches
South Carolina’s connection to peaches isn’t new. Historical records show that peaches were growing in the state as far back as the late 1600s. Over the years, they’ve become one of the state’s signature crops. So much so, that in 1984, the South Carolina Legislature declared the peach as the official state fruit!
Now, let’s talk numbers. According to the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, the state grows around 90,000 tons of peaches every year, spread over approximately 18,000 acres of orchards. Compare that to Georgia, which produces around 40,000 tons—that’s less than half of South Carolina’s output! The only states ahead in overall peach production are California and South Carolina itself. California produces a lot of both fresh and processed peaches, but when it comes to fresh, juicy fruit, South Carolina leads the South.
How Peaches Came to South Carolina
Did you know peaches originally come from China? They’ve been grown there for over 4,000 years! Spanish settlers brought peaches to South Carolina in the 1500s. For a long time, people even thought peaches were native to the region because they grew so well here.
It wasn’t until the 1850s that South Carolina began growing peaches commercially. Things really took off in the 1920s, when cotton farmers, struggling with their crops, decided to try something new. And it paid off! Peach farming boomed, especially after World War II, hitting a record in 1984 with a jaw-dropping 480,000 tons harvested in a single year.
Georgia may have started growing peaches as a commercial crop earlier, but South Carolina quickly caught up—and surpassed it.
Why South Carolina Peaches Stand Out
South Carolina peaches are famous not just because of the quantity but also their quality and taste. In fact, many people refer to South Carolina as “The Tastier Peach State.” Thanks to the state’s perfect climate and soil conditions, these peaches are known for being extra sweet and juicy.
Weather plays a big role in peach farming. Just a small drop in temperature—by even one or two degrees—can affect the entire crop. That’s why peach growers keep a close eye on weather forecasts every season.
Peaches are best when picked at their peak ripeness. Unlike some fruits, peaches won’t get sweeter if you leave them sitting around. Experts, like those at Fishers Orchard, suggest looking for peaches with a creamy or yellow color. Avoid peaches that have a greenish tint—they were picked too early and won’t taste as sweet.
More Than Just a Snack: How South Carolinians Enjoy Peaches
Of course, the most classic way to enjoy a peach is simply eating it fresh and cold. But South Carolina peaches are incredibly versatile! Here are some tasty ways locals use peaches:
- Peach cobbler: A southern classic.
- Peach pies: Perfect for summer get-togethers.
- Ice creams & sorbets: Cool and refreshing.
- Peach smoothies: Healthy and tasty.
- Peach salsa: A sweet twist for savory dishes.
- Peach butter, jams, glazes: For spreading or cooking.
- Pastries like tarts and danishes: Delicious treats.
Want to try something new this season? Southern Living has a list of 40 peach recipes you can experiment with!
Also, here’s a fun trick: Toss some frozen peach slices into your sweet tea. It adds a natural fruity flavor and keeps your drink cool.
Quick Peach Facts to Impress Your Friends
- South Carolina has around 18,000 acres of peach orchards.
- Each year, over 200 million pounds of peaches are harvested in the state.
- South Carolina peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, plus alpha hydroxy fruit acids—great for your health and your skin!
- Peaches thrive in South Carolina’s climate, but even small weather changes can impact the harvest.
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