Harvesting is underway for Stemilt’s all-organic peach and nectarine crop in Washington State, with the group claiming that natural farming methods are helping to deliver summer fruits with true dessert flavours.
“This is the sixth season that our entire peach and nectarine crop is grown and certified as organic,' said Stemilt marketing director Roger Pepperl. 'Consumer demand for organic fruit is very high, and we look forward to supplying organic peaches and nectarines that burst with flavor during the final stretch of summer.”
Stemilt’s peaches and nectarines are packed under its Artisan Organics label and available from late July to mid-September. The majority of these summer fruits are grown by the Douglas family of Douglas Fruit in Pasco, Washington.
The 2014 season is trending a week ahead of normal with growing conditions from spring bloom through summer described by growers as “absolutely ideal” for peaches and nectarines, Pepperl said.
“The fruit looks and tastes incredible. Vibrant colors, juicy and sweet flavors with a good amount of acid. Our focus on tree-ripened fruit ensures a consistent level of maturity to further enhance the consumer eating experience. Artisan Organics peaches and nectarines offer retailers with a true differentiation point to their late summer fruit program. We look forward to delivering a premium, high-flavoured crop in the coming months.” said Pepperl.
