NASHVILLE, Tenn. (RFD News) — U.S. peach growers are navigating softer producer pricing, processing-sector contraction and uneven retail values as the 2026 season moves toward fall. USDA retail data show advertised peaches around $1.83 per pound in the South Central region and $2.02 in the Midwest during the week ending August 21.
On the producer side, the Bureau of Labor Statistics peach Producer Price Index fell to 335.7 in July from 345.8 in June and 526.6 in May, signaling significant seasonal price pressure. The index measures price movement rather than dollars received per pound.
California processing growers face a deeper problem. USDA created a $9 million program to pay qualifying clingstone growers to remove trees after a major processor bankruptcy and cannery closure left excess production capacity.
Fresh-market opportunities remain. Mexico expects peach imports to increase 7% this year, while new international access could expand outlets for premium U.S. fruit.
The market remains highly regional, with weather, labor, packing costs and available buyers determining producer returns.
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Tony’s Easy Peach Cobbler
PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES
COOK TIME: 35 MINUTES
TOTAL TIME: 40 MINUTES
Tony’s Easy Peach Cobbler is a simple, delicious dessert made with fresh or canned peaches and a few pantry staples. Ready in just 40 minutes!
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp of salt
- 10 ounces of fresh or canned peaches
- Optional: Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Melt one stick of butter in a baking pan or dish.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Pour mixture evenly into pan over melted butter
- Add fresh or canned peaches evenly across the pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
