How to Harvest and Store Peaches

You don't have to live in Georgia to grow peaches. They do tend to favor warmer climates, but thanks to modern hybridizers even New Englanders can enjoy fresh-picked peaches for pies, cobblers, daiquiris or just good eating.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Baskets
• Gardening Gloves
• Canning Jars
• Dehydrators
• Canning jars
• Baskets

1. Pick peaches after the green tinge disappears. Only then will the fruit taste ripe and sweet. Peaches should be slightly firm, but should come off the branch with a slight twist.

2. Remove peaches carefully to avoid bruising the tender flesh.

3. Eat peaches within a day of picking, if possible. Otherwise, store them in the refrigerator's crisper for up to three to five days.

4. Can, dry or freeze peaches for long-term storage, or make them into preserves, pickles or salsa.

Tips & Warnings

• Expect to get a pint of frozen peaches from 1 to 1-1/2 pounds of fresh fruit.
• Check books for methods of freezing, canning, drying and pickling peaches.