FORT MILL, SC – Saturday night’s freeze could have a long-term affect on area farms. Springs Farm manager Ron Edwards is keeping a close eye on temperatures.
He says the Fort Mill farm’s peach business is dependent on the blooms staying alive. “It’s everything. Our whole operation revolves around the weather,” Edwards says.
A freeze warning is in effect Saturday night into Sunday morning for most of the counties in WCCB Charlotte’s viewing area.
Edwards says peaches can be damaged at 28 degrees or below. “Yeah it’s gonna get down to 25 or so, 23. But how long is it gonna be that cold?” he asks. He says if temps quickly rebound, most of the crop should survive.
But it’s not just peaches. Strawberries are also in danger. Farmers have covered them to make sure they’re protected.
Local shoppers say they’re worried about the impact if there is less fresh fruit to buy. “Cause you have to go out and get something that has been flown in… or shipped in from a far, where we can’t support our local markets,” says Patricia Brice.
