What Happened!?!

To our loyal patrons and friends, 

It is with great sadness that we are letting you know that we do not anticipate opening Prospect Hill Orchards for Pick Your Own this summer.  Our crops of cherries, peaches, apricots and plums have been damaged by the severe weather fluctuations this winter.   In January we had several days of 50-degree temperatures followed by freezing cold nights in February when temperatures plummeted to as low as -11 degrees.  This crazy weather caused the buds to lose their winter hardiness and they could not survive.  This is the worst crop failure the farm has experienced in 56 years.  Farming is not for the faint of heart. No matter how hard you work every day to ensure a bountiful crop, you are still dependent upon Mother Nature. 

The good news is that apples and pears were not affected, and we anticipate a great fall season in all three locations! We know that you are as disappointed as we are, but next year is “another year” and we will have great crops again! 

Keep an eye on our Facebook page, website and newsletter for the most up to date information on our crops.  And of course, we will still be at our usual NYC Greenmarkets selling our berries, jams and fresh baked goods.  

So, while we will not see you for cherries this June, we hope to see you in the fall. Thank you for understanding the highs and lows of being a farmer. 

Sincerely, 

Steve, Judy, Pam & Brad Clarke