Peaches are ripening in "The Land Of Oceana." The local crop survived the adverse weather conditions of late winter-early spring. Peaches by nature are not as winter hardy as other fruits, especially pome fruits such as apples and pears. Clingstone and freestone are the major types. Peaches processed and found in markets are clingstone due to their firmer texture, while freestones, such as Red Haven, are more of a dessert-type eating peach and preferred for home canning. Many peach varieties are mislabeled and sold as Red Haven but are not true to type.
Numerous varieties of both types are readily available if you know the correct source. Stanley Johnston was a Michigan State University (Michigan State College at the time) fruit breeder responsible for developing the Haven peach and some of those included Red Haven, Hale Haven and Glow Haven and, as the name implies, were developed in the South Haven, Michigan area. Paul Friday in the Hartford area developed other strains labeled as Fury, and the most well-known one was Flaming Fury. Both breeders had their own characteristic traits, which they were noted for. Paul Friday passed away recently at a "ripe" old age.
The American Agriculturist's recent article on the 2026 cherry crop described the "perfect storm" of Michigan's disastrous season. Weather-related cold nights coupled with pollination issues quickly changed the state's 270 to 300 million pound crop to a very small one. Michigan produces 75 percent of the nation's production, and Southwest Michigan produces 1.5 million pounds. West Central saw 4 million pounds, with Northwest the bright spot with 40 million pounds. The Northwest crop was above last year's production, with the remaining areas with 10 percent of a crop or less. Location was a key factor in the crop load. The reality is not a bright outlook for the tart cherry future with an already low carryover of product. Prices to the grower of around $1 per pound is also of little help if there is no crop to harvest. Farmer optimism says next year will be different.
The row crop outlook is somewhat more encouraging, but soil moisture problems still exist, and while grain prices have improved over the summer, a high-yielding crop is needed to be profitable. The doom and gloom segment is fertilizer prices are too high relative to market prices, and fuel-diesel prices have not dropped to affordable levels.
The 155th Oceana County Fair is August 24-29 in Hart. Organizers hope all can attend and witness the dedication of around 400 youth who showcase their hard work in various projects. Two auctions are held to sell various animal projects. Purchasing something helps area youth and provides quality meat to the buyer.
Remember to "Share the Road" with slow-moving farm equipment as harvest season continues. Let's make sure everyone gets home safely every evening.
