Peaches

“Magnificent Trees of Indiana” is a perfect book for nature enthusiasts, with more than 200 photographs of Indiana’s tree and old-growth forest remnants.

The Hackman Family shared their story as Featured Farmers at the Indiana State Fair this year. Thomas and Ruth Hackman operate a 100-year-old farm with their children, Victor, Jacquelyn, Megan and Allison.

Lincoln Land Community College dedicated its newest learning space, 2.1 acres of land at 2320 West Lake Shore Drive, now known as West Lake Nature Grove.

Sitting atop Illinois’ own version of the “continental divide” is a farm that’s been providing fresh fruits to customers for decades.

The same factors that produced a later and lighter cherry crop are affecting many peach growers, as well. Cold spring weather, a late April frost and their impact on pollination has delayed the peach harvesting season, usually at its peak by now.

May is National Strawberry month, and on May 21 we celebrate National Strawberries and Cream Day, bringing together two favorites: fresh ripe strawberries and homemade whipped cream.

Despite some late spring freezes, this year has seen a bumper crop of Illinois peaches. “We dodged a bullet twice,” said Tom Range, owner, with his wife, Pat, of Braeutigam Orchards in Belleville.

At Braeutigam’s Orchard, the company priorities start with a “P.” That includes people, peaches and pumpkins.

While late April brings to mind thoughts of warm weather, blooming flowers and summer waiting in the wings, a late-season snow left local orchards working to protect their crops.