By Clint Thompson
One University of Georgia (UGA) peach specialist is confident about this year’s crop despite falling short of chill hour accumulation.
Dario Chavez, UGA assistant professor with an emphasis in peach physiology and breeding, discussed Georgia’s crop at the Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association annual meeting on Thursday, Feb. 9 in Gulf Shores, Alabama.
“In Georgia we’re a little below (the chill hour requirement), but we’re similar to last year. What makes me feel okay is that we have gotten some warm weather, but we have gotten warm weather with overcast days and rainfall. None of the models take into account the temperatures in the trees, but when the sun is heating the tree, that bark and that tree becomes really hot. I believe that actually affects the chill that has been accumulated. Days like this when it’s overcast and rainy, even when they are warmer, it’s okay,” Chavez said. “I feel a lot better than having a week of sun and 60 or 70 degrees (Fahrenheit). That worries me a lot.”
Peaches need chill hours to mature. The required chill hours depend on the specific variety growers choose to plant. Some may require as little as 500 chill hours, while others may need as many 800. According to University of Georgia Extension, fruit trees require a certain number of hours below 45 degrees Fahrenheit to break down growth inhibitors in buds. This allows them to produce fruit in the spring.