PARLIER, Calif. (KFSN) — High temperatures across the Central Valley are accelerating crop maturation and prompting growers to adjust work schedules and farmers market hours.<\/p>\n
At Blossom Bluff Orchards in Parlier, the summer heat is helping dry peaches and pluots, while workers inside the packing shed sort and pack organic fresh fruit.<\/p>\n
“We do what we can in the packing shed to keep things cool. We have swamp coolers and fans and we try to move the air around as much as we can,” said Bryce Loewen of Blossom Bluff Orchards.<\/p>\n
The farm is located along the Kings River, which Loewen said helps keep the water table stable. While warm weather helps build sugar in the fruit, extreme temperatures can make working conditions more challenging.<\/p>\n
“Plenty of water. Our biggest strategy this time of year is start early, get it done before it gets too hot,” Loewen said.<\/p>\n
In addition to selling stone fruit to stores and at Bay Area farmers markets, Loewen sells peaches, nectarines and other fruit at the Vineyard Farmers Market at Shaw and Blackstone in Fresno.<\/p>\n
“The farmers markets have always been my favorite. We get to sell directly to people who enjoy it and get that feedback,” Loewen said.<\/p>\n
This week’s heat is also affecting the schedule of the Wednesday afternoon Vineyard Farmers Market. While the Saturday morning market remains unchanged, Wednesday’s market hours will be shortened.<\/p>\n
“It’s already a relatively short market, 3-6. This week it will be 3-5 so that we’re not out there cookin’ for too long, which is a shame. But on the other hand, I’m fine with it . It’s going to be very hot,” Loewen said.<\/p>\n
Loewen said stone fruit arrived earlier this season because of high temperatures experienced in March. He said he has heard similar reports from other growers, including those producing peaches, grapes and almonds.<\/p>\n
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