Below-freezing temperatures the first week of March potentially significantly impacted the central and south Alabama peach crop.

Adequate chill hours combined with warm temperatures caused many fruit cultivars, including peaches, plums and blueberries, to be in bloom — making them more susceptible to colder weather.

North Alabama crops received some damage, but farmers are cautiously optimistic, said Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association Executive Director Hunter McBrayer.

While most fruit and vegetable growers are diversified — with farms including peaches, strawberries and various vegetables — peaches often drive summer produce sales.