Author name: Scofield Fruits

Palisade Fruit Update 2026: Setting the Record Straight Mike Scofield – Scofield Fruits May 2, 2026 Following reports of crop loss, we have a vital Palisade Peach Update for 2026 to set the record straight.  We’ve seen a “storm of concern” over the past 48 hours following a social media post from the Boulder County Farmers Market and a subsequent article in the Denver Post. The reports stated that “3 of 5 growers” had reported complete crop loss, leading many to believe that the 2026 Colorado fruit season was over before it began. At Scofield Fruits, we spent yesterday afternoon on the phone with our partners on the Western Slope to get the facts. Here is what we know first-hand. Setting the Record Straight Since this firestorm of concern began, the Denver Post has corrected their initial information. After receiving the early reports from the BCFM post, the Post reached out to us directly, and to several Western Slope and Palisade growers, to obtain known, first-hand information. As a fresh produce market that has worked grower-direct for more than four decades, we were able to help provide the Post with the ground-level context needed for their correction and a clearer explanation regarding the specific growing regions involved. The Good News: Palisade is Thriving After speaking with our growers in Palisade yesterday, we are happy to report that the area is doing well. While there was a recent cold snap, the Palisade peach crop is in great shape and remains mostly unharmed. Our main grower also confirms that the Palisade sweet cherry crop is looking healthy and strong. In short: We will have Colorado Peaches, sweet cherries, and other delicious fruits from Palisade this season! Understanding the Misinformation The reports circulating on Thursday were based on a very specific group of growers, primarily located in the North Fork Valley (Delta County area). While our hearts go out to any farmer facing a difficult year, it is important to understand that their situation is not representative of the Palisade region. As the updated reports now show, while Delta County was hit hard, Palisade was largely unscathed. A History of Resilience Spring freezes are a part of life on the Western Slope, but Palisade has a secret weapon: the “Million Dollar Breeze.” This unique down-valley wind pulls warmer air from the canyons, preventing frost from settling in the orchards. Fortunately, he growers we work with are experts in “frost fighting”, using everything from wind machines to all-night temperature monitoring, to protect the blossoms we all love. Palisade Peach Season: What to Expect Because of the unseasonably warm winter, the fruit is developing rapidly. Here is the “ground truth” for your 2026 planning: Earlier Harvest: We expect the first Palisade peaches to arrive significantly earlier than their typical late-June debut. A Shorter Window: An early start usually means an early finish. The season will likely wrap up sooner than normal. Peak Canning Shift: If you usually wait until August 1st for canning and freezing, you will be too late. “Peak season” will likely hit in mid-to-late July. Our Advice: Don’t rely on the “traditional” dates this year. Most importantly, follow our updates closely so you don’t miss the window for your favorite varieties.   Looking Ahead We normally refrain from posting peach crop updates until after Mother’s Day, but given the confusing information released on Thursday, we felt it was necessary to share the facts early. Having dealt directly with Colorado growers for over 40 years, we know the “miracle” of the Palisade peach is still very much alive for 2026. Thank you for joining with us to support our local growers! We will keep you posted with “known” updates as we get closer to the first pick. Follow our socials (most importantly, Facebook and Instagram) for the most up-to-date information.

A Promising Outlook to Start the 2025 Colorado Produce Season   As summer approaches in Loveland, Colorado, we are thrilled to report a strong outlook to start the 2025 Colorado produce season. At Scofield Fruits, our longstanding relationships with trusted growers allow us to share firsthand updates on crop health, harvest timelines, and what you can expect at our Loveland fruit stand and the farmers’ markets we attend. This year promises an abundant supply of Palisade peaches, Colorado cherries, heirloom tomatoes, and more. Below is a full update on seasonal highlights, including expected arrival dates and some exciting new offerings. Palisade Peaches: A Strong, Healthy Crop We are pleased to confirm that our Palisade peach growers are reporting a full crop for 2025. Growers in western Colorado experienced relatively mild spring conditions. Wind machines, used to protect blossoms from frost damage, were needed only a few times after the bud stage. This is an excellent indicator of a strong and healthy crop. Interestingly, minor freezing temperatures actually help with natural thinning of the fruit. Thinning is essential to ensure peaches grow large and flavorful, and when nature performs part of that work, it supports better fruit quality and reduces labor demand. At this point in the season, we anticipate our first shipment of Palisade peaches to arrive around July 4. Depending on weather fluctuations over the coming weeks, this date may shift slightly forward or backward. However, a July 4 arrival is a strong estimate and consistent with historical averages for a full crop year. Colorado Cherries: Bing and Rainier Varieties June marks the start of cherry season in Colorado, and both Bing and Rainier cherries are on track for excellent harvests. Bing cherries, known for their deep red color and rich sweetness, are ideal for baking, snacking, or adding to summer salads. Rainier cherries, with their golden-yellow skin and subtly sweet flavor, are always a customer favorite. Based on current ripening rates, we anticipate Colorado cherries to begin arriving in early June. As always, we will bring in cherries from our long-established growers, ensuring freshness and peak flavor. Tomatoes: Heirloom and Beefsteak Varieties Beginning in June Colorado-grown heirloom and beefsteak tomatoes are beginning to ripen and will start arriving at our locations in early June. These are the tomatoes that are greenhouse grown just south of us in Longmont that many of our customers have grown to love.  These aren’t just your average greenhouse tomatoes though.  These tomatoes are grown to perfection and full ripeness, using sustainable growing techniques.  That’s what sets them apart from the norm and makes them stand out as an amazing tomato.  True field-grown tomatoes start in late July. Heirloom varieties offer a spectrum of color, texture, and flavor that make them popular among chefs and home cooks alike. Beefsteaks are a summer staple ideal for burgers, sandwiches, or caprese salads. We’ll also have cherry tomatoes available throughout the season. Expect to see a steady flow of local tomatoes starting in early June, continuing into the late summer months. Where to Find Us During Produce Season:     In addition to our Loveland fruit stand that opened for the season on May 1st., our weekly farmers’ markets begin in June and run through September.  This encompasses the “Peak” of Colorado roduce season. We’re excited to return to two fantastic community markets where you can find all your favorite fresh fruits, vegetables, and local specialty items. Sunday Loveland Farmers Market: Opening day is Sunday, June 1. Join us every Sunday for fresh Colorado produce, specialty goods, and friendly faces. Estes Valley Farmers Market: Kicking off on Thursday, June 5, this weekly market is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Find us there every Thursday throughout the season. Both markets provide a great opportunity to shop local, meet the vendors, and enjoy the freshest offerings each week. We can’t wait to see you there. What’s New at Scofield Fruits This Season? While we always bring back customer favorites like roasted green chiles, tart pie cherries, and Rocky Ford melons, this year we’re also introducing several new locally made specialty items, including: Pickled and spicy asparagus Handcrafted pickles in several flavors Fresh, seasonal salsas Small-batch jams and jellies Other surprises to be announced soon These new items reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting local producers and bringing unique, high-quality products to our customers. Whether you’re putting together a picnic basket or a charcuterie board, our new additions offer something fresh and flavorful for everyone. Looking Ahead At Colorado Produce Season: Mid to Late-Summer Highlights While peaches, cherries, and tomatoes are the first major crops of the season, there is still much to look forward to as summer unfolds. Here’s a quick overview of what’s coming later: Rocky Ford cantaloupes and watermelons: arriving in late July Brighton sweet corn: expected by mid- to late July Fresh roasted Pueblo and Hatch-style green chiles: available starting mid-late July.  We have frozen Pueblo Chilies available at the fruit stand now. Fresh and frozen tart cherries: great for pies, sauces, and preserves.  We have frozen Pueblo Chilies available at the fruit stand now. We’ll continue providing updates throughout the season so you can plan your market visits and stock up at just the right time. Our Commitment to Community and Quality Scofield Fruits LLC is proud to be a fourth-generation, family-owned business operating since 1985. Every season, we prioritize local partnerships, sustainable sourcing, and high-quality products that reflect the best of Colorado agriculture. We love reconnecting with our loyal customers each year and are always excited to meet new faces. Whether you visit us at our Loveland fruit stand or find us at one of our weekly farmers markets, you can count on us to bring the freshest produce available, with a smile. Stay Connected For real-time updates, product announcements, and behind-the-scenes photos, be sure to follow us on social media: Facebook Instagram X Tiktok We’ll keep you posted on harvest dates, market locations, and new product arrivals all season long. A Produce