How the climate crisis is putting your favorite summer fruits at risk

Peach trees in Georgia are blooming earlier this year compared to the previous year’s freeze. Farmers are implementing new strategies, like using wind machines and trying out different fruit varieties, to protect crops from unpredictable weather patterns caused by the climate crisis. Warmer winters and sudden temperature drops pose a risk to fruit crops such as peaches, plums, apples, and apricots. Last year, Georgia lost over 90% of its peach crop due to an abnormally warm winter. The availability of fruits is expected to be affected by climate-related events in the future. The warmest winter on record for the Lower 48 US states emphasizes the erratic weather patterns seen in spring. Such weather events, including intense frost, can damage orchards and lower harvest yields. The unpredictability of weather conditions also affects apple growers in New Hampshire. The fluctuating weather, with extreme heat, droughts, and sudden freezes, stresses fruit trees and alters their sugar content, acidity, flavor, and appearance. Farmers are seeking solutions, like exploring new fruit varieties and employing innovative methods to protect their crops. The entire food system is at risk, and it is essential for farmers to adapt to these changing conditions.