MEDIA, P.A. (KYW Newsradio) — The freezing temperatures sticking around later in the year than usual are devastating farmers in the Philadelphia region. Linvilla Orchards in Delaware County says it’s lost nearly all of its apple and peach crop.
A favorite of visitors to the farm is the Hayride to Bunnyland at Easter time.
The attraction travels past the trees so people can view beautiful blooms that will grow into apples, pears, cherries and peaches.
But those buds are delicate, and susceptible to dying off if conditions worsen. Sarah Linvill, administrative assistant at Linvilla Orchards, said apple trees’ flower buds bloom before Easter, and they didn’t stand a chance when temperatures fell below freezing back in late April.
“Our farm crew after the freeze was scouring the orchard trying to find any trees that may be unscathed,” she said. “The fruit should be green and vibrant on the inside of that bud and instead, what you see is black. It’s just brown and dead inside.”
In addition to losing an estimated 90% of the apple crop, Linvill said the farm also lost 60% to 90% of its peach crop.
“They like it hot right?” she said. “Everyone loves the Georgia peach so if it can get warm and stay warm, you’re set up for success.”
The 102-year-old orchard said fresh produce will still be in stock at its market and it is ramping up flower sales to make up for the loss in produce. They also said the costs will not be passed on to customers.
Leaders say upwards of 90% of the crop was lost.
Leaders say upwards of 90% of the crop was lost.
