Types of Peaches in Georgia
Georgia produces over 40 varieties peaches each year. However, the three most common types are: Clingstone; Freestone, and Semi-Free Peaches. The names relate to how the stone or pit attaches to the peach flesh.
Clingstone Peaches
Clingstone Peaches
These peaches have stones that really cling to the flesh. They have yellow flesh with bright red areas near the stone. Clingstone peaches are soft, juicy and a good choice for desserts, canning and for making jams and jellies. In Georgia, this variety is ready for harvesting from mid-May through early June.
Freestone Peaches
Freestone Peaches
These peaches have stones that are easily removed from the flesh. This common type of peach is more orange in color and is generally larger in size than the Clingstones. Freestones have a firmer, less juicy flesh making them suitable for baking and canning. In Georgia, this variety is ready for harvesting from mid-June through mid-August.
Semi-Free Peaches
Semi-Free Peaches
These peaches are a newer, hybrid variety of the Clingstone and Freestone peaches. They have yellow flesh and a orange-red skin. Semi-frees are best used fresh or for canning. In Georgia, this variety is ready for harvesting from early June through late June.