Why aren peaches, plums and nectarines labeled by variety in the store?
There are more than 600 varieties of peaches, plums and nectarines grown in California, and they ripen and are harvested successively, each one for about ten days to two weeks. Peaches, plums and nectarines can’t be stored for later sale, as some fruits can, so fruit breeders have worked to develop many varieties that will ensure a steady supply throughout the season. Because of that, the varieties available change week by week, and are not the same throughout the season, as for some other fruits. With 600 varieties, it’s just too many signs to make!
