This
long term project involves the evaluation and testing of commercially available
cultivars and advanced selections of peach and nectarine for production suitability
in South Carolina. Commercial cultivars are obtained annually from nurseries
and breeding programs around the U.S. The trial examines both yellow and white
flesh peaches and nectarines, most with melting but some with non-melting
flesh, several low (or sub) acid types and also some niche (flat) types. In
addition to peaches and nectarines at the Musser Farm location, there are a few
apricots, plums, and interspecific Prunus hybrids
also being evaluated. Clemson University peach website includes all evaluation
information, variety descriptions and photos, when available. This project
currently utilizes trial orchards at two different locations in the state:
on-farm grower trial, established in January, 2005, at James E. Cooley Peach
Farms, Inc. in Chesnee, SC; and new variety planting at Clemson University's
Musser Fruit Research Farm.