The peach production forecast is down for 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS).
Production is expected to net 583,500 tons, a 15% decrease from the previous season. California, the top peach producing state, is forecast at 430,000 tons, down 15% from the previous year. Frost events and hail decreased production and quality.
The freeze event in March impacted yields in South Carolina, the second largest peach state, and Georgia. Production declined in both states, 13% and 26% respectively, compared to 2021.
Only two of the eight USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service that were surveyed are expected to have a production increase in 2022; Colorado and Michigan.
Decreased domestic production and higher prices slowed fresh peach exports. Export volume for both peaches and nectarines declined 6% through July. Import volume, mostly from Chile, was also down 3%. Growers are replanting orchards with nectarines and other crops that have higher margins compared to fresh peaches.