When to Pick Peaches in Michigan
Are you ready for peach season? If you’re looking for a fun and rewarding activity to do with your family or friends, consider visiting a u-pick farm in late July to go peach picking! A u-pick farm is a great way to get out in the fresh air, enjoy the beautiful scenery of a peach orchard, and pick your own delicious peaches straight from the tree.
Peach season typically starts in late July and lasts through September, depending on the peach varieties grown in the area. During this time, peach trees are laden with ripe, juicy fruit that is perfect for picking. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time picker, peach picking is a fun and memorable experience that the whole family can enjoy. Peach trees are a beautiful sight to see.
At a u-pick farm, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the peach orchard and discover different peach varieties. From early-season peaches to mid-season and late-season varieties, there’s a peach for everyone to enjoy. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the different peach trees and how they’re grown, as well as tips and tricks for picking the best fruit.
So if you’re looking for a fun and delicious summer activity, head to a u-pick farm and experience the joy of peach picking. Get ready to enjoy the sweet and juicy taste of fresh-picked peaches, straight from the tree!
For more of our blog posts and free printable perks each month, visit us at https://homecitysource.com/
Aside From Peaches, Other Things To Do In Michigan During This Season
Michigan is known for its abundant fruit orchards, and there are plenty of opportunities throughout the state to pick your own fresh fruit.
Traverse City, located in northern Michigan, is famous for its black sweet cherries and has many u-pick orchards where you can pick your own fruit straight from the tree.
Grand Rapids is another great place to go fruit picking, with a variety of u-pick farms offering everything from peaches to apples.
Some orchards provide paper bags or containers for picking your own fruit, while others allow you to bring your own containers. Many of these farms also offer pumpkin patches in the fall, making it a great activity for the whole family to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, a visit to a u-pick orchard in Michigan is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the state’s fruit trees while picking your own fresh, delicious fruit.
Early-Season Peaches (Late July to Early August)
Early-season peaches in Michigan typically ripen from late July to early August. These peaches tend to have a smaller size and are usually yellow with a red blush. They are often firmer in texture and have a more tangy, acidic flavor compared to mid or late season peaches.
When picking early-season peaches, it’s important to look for fruit that has a consistent color and firm texture. Avoid peaches with green patches or bruises. You should also check the aroma of the peach, as a ripe peach will have a strong, sweet scent.
One thing to keep in mind is that early-season peaches have a shorter shelf life than mid or late-season peaches. So it’s best to eat them as soon as possible or store them in the fridge for a few days to keep them fresh.
Overall, if you’re looking to pick early-season peaches in Michigan, it’s best to plan your visit to the orchard for late July to early August.
Mid-Season Peaches (Mid to Late August)
Mid-season peaches in Michigan typically ripen from mid to late August. These peaches are larger in size and have a more vibrant, orange-yellow color compared to early-season peaches. They also tend to have a juicier and sweeter flavor with a softer texture.
When picking mid-season peaches, look for fruit that has a deep, rich color and a gentle give when pressed lightly. Avoid peaches that are too soft, as they may be overripe and may spoil quickly. The aroma of ripe mid-season peaches is usually sweet and fragrant, so be sure to take a good whiff before making your selection.
One benefit of mid-season peaches is that they have a longer shelf life than early-season peaches, so they can be stored for a few days after picking without spoiling. However, it’s still a good idea to eat them as soon as possible to enjoy them at their best.
Overall, if you want to pick mid-season peaches in Michigan, plan your visit to the orchard for mid to late August to get the best selection of ripe, juicy peaches.
Late Season Peaches (Late August to Early September)
Late-season peaches in Michigan typically ripen from late August to early September. These peaches are larger in size than early-season peaches and are often a deep red color with a yellow background. They have a very sweet flavor and a softer texture, making them perfect for eating fresh or for use in baking.
When picking late-season peaches, look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch but not too mushy. The color of ripe late-season peaches is usually a deep red with a yellow background, and they may also have a slight fuzziness on the skin. They should also have a strong, sweet aroma when you smell them.
One thing to keep in mind with late-season peaches is that they can spoil quickly if not stored properly. Be sure to eat them within a few days of picking them, or store them in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
Overall, if you want to pick late-season peaches in Michigan, plan your visit to the orchard for late August to early September. This is the best time to find ripe, juicy peaches that are perfect for eating fresh or for use in your favorite peach recipes.
Tips for Picking Peaches
Below are some of our best tips for picking peaches:
1- Use the “Twist and Lift” Method:
When picking peaches, gently twist the fruit until it comes off the tree. Don’t pull the peach, as this can damage the fruit or the tree.
The “Twist and Lift” method is a common technique used for picking peaches. Here are the steps to follow:
Position your hand around the peach: Gently grasp the peach with your hand and position it in the palm of your hand. You can also use two hands to cradle the fruit if it’s larger.
For more of our blog posts and free printable perks each month, visit us at https://homecitysource.com/
Twist the Fruit:
Give the peach a gentle twist with your hand until it comes off the tree. The peach should detach easily with minimal force. Be careful not to tug on the fruit, as this can damage the tree or the peach itself.
Check the Fruit:
After removing the peach, examine it for any signs of damage, such as bruises or cuts. If the peach is damaged, set it aside and choose another one.
Repeat the Process:
Continue picking peaches using the Twist and Lift method until you have the desired amount.
Using the Twist and Lift method ensures that the peach is removed from the tree without damaging it, which helps to preserve the quality and flavor of the fruit. It’s also important to handle the peaches gently when placing them in your basket or bag, as they are delicate fruits that bruise easily.
The Twist and Lift method is a simple and effective technique for picking peaches that anyone can use to select ripe, juicy peaches that are perfect for eating fresh or using in your favorite recipes.
2- Handle the Fruit Gently:
Peaches are delicate fruits that bruise easily. Handle them with care to avoid damaging the fruit. Place them gently into your basket or bag to prevent bruising.
When picking peaches, use the Twist and Lift method to gently remove the fruit from the tree. Avoid pulling on the fruit or using too much force, as this can damage the tree or the peach itself.
Place the Fruit Gently in Your Basket or Bag:
After picking a peach, place it gently in your basket or bag to avoid bruising. Avoid stacking the peaches on top of each other or placing heavy objects on top of them.
Transport the Fruit Carefully:
When transporting your peaches, be sure to handle them gently to prevent bruising. Place them on a flat surface and avoid bouncing or jostling them during transportation.
Store the Fruit Properly:
After picking peaches, store them in a cool, dry place. Be sure not to stack them on top of each other, as this can cause bruising. If you’re storing them in the refrigerator, place them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray.
By handling peaches gently, you can help to preserve the quality and flavor of the fruit. Gently handled peaches are less likely to be damaged or bruised, which makes them more enjoyable to eat and cook with.
3- Look for Consistent Color and Texture:
When selecting peaches, look for fruit with a consistent color and firm texture. Avoid peaches with green patches or bruises, as these are signs that the fruit is not yet ripe or has been damaged.
4- Check the Aroma:
Ripe peaches have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If the peach smells fresh and sweet, it is likely ripe and ready to eat.
5- Consider the Variety:
Different peach varieties ripen at different times. Check with your local orchard or farmer’s market to find out which varieties are available and when they are in season.
6- Don’T Overfill Your Basket:
It’s important not to overfill your basket or bag with peaches, as this can cause the fruit at the bottom to become crushed or bruised. Fill your container about two-thirds full to prevent this.
7- Store the Fruit Properly:
After picking peaches, store them in the refrigerator or eat them within a few days to prevent spoilage. Be sure to handle them gently when transporting them home to prevent bruising.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to pick ripe, juicy peaches that are perfect for eating fresh or using in your favorite peach recipes.
Early-Season: Other Things to Do In Michigan
If you’re planning a trip to Michigan during June or July, there are plenty of other fun activities to enjoy, especially if you’re a fan of fresh fruits and sweet treats. One great option is to visit King Orchards, located in the northern part of the state, for some strawberry picking. You can fill your basket with delicious fresh strawberries that are perfect for eating on their own or for making into jams and desserts.
Another great place to visit during this time of year is Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, which is located in Armada, Michigan. In addition to their famous cider mill, they offer a wide variety of fun activities for the whole family, including wagon rides, hay rides, and u-pick fruit seasons, such as the peach crop in July. You can also enjoy their famous caramel apples, which are a sweet treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you’re looking for a scenic location to visit during your trip to Michigan, South Haven is the perfect place to go. This charming beach town is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is known for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous sunsets. During the summer months, you can also enjoy fresh eating at local farmers’ markets and pick up some delicious fresh fruits and vegetables, such as red haven peaches and maple syrup.
Mid-Late-Seasons: Other Things to Do In Michigan
Michigan is a great place to visit in the fall, with its crisp air, beautiful fall foliage, and abundance of fun activities for the whole family. One of the most popular fall activities is visiting a corn maze. There are several places throughout the state where you can go to get lost in a maze of corn stalks and have a great time with your family and friends.
If you’re looking for a corn maze in Michigan, one great option is to visit a farm in early June. Many farms in the state open their corn mazes early in the season, so you can enjoy the fun before the busy fall season. In addition to the corn maze, many of these farms also offer other fun activities, such as a petting zoo or a hayride.
One great option for a corn maze in Michigan is the Lake Michigan area, which offers a variety of farms and orchards with corn mazes. These farms also offer u-pick fruits such as sweet corn and tart cherries, which are in season during the summer months. You can also visit an apple orchard and pick your own apples, which are in season in the fall.
When visiting a corn maze, it’s important to come prepared. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that can get dirty, and bring a paper bag or container to collect any u-pick fruits you may want to take home with you. Many of these farms also offer food and drinks for purchase, so be sure to bring cash or a credit card.
For more of our blog posts and free printable perks each month, visit us at https://homecitysource.com/
In addition to the fun activities and delicious fresh produce, visiting a corn maze in Michigan is a great way to support local farmers and agriculture. So if you’re looking for a fun fall activity that the whole family can enjoy, head to a corn maze in Michigan and have a great time getting lost in the stalks!
Michigan is a great place to visit any time of year. Whether you are looking for fresh fruits, cider mills, or outdoor activities. If you’re looking for a fun and memorable vacation, head to Michigan and enjoy all the sights, sounds, and flavors that this beautiful state has to offer.
For more of our blog posts and free printable perks each month, visit us at https://homecitysource.com/
