Peaches Are Ripe On The Peninsula; Here’s Where To Find Them

Fresh fruit watch: The famers at VerSnyder Orchards are now stocking their stand at 1530 South Lakeshore Drive (County Road 643) in Lake Leelanau. (Pro tip: they recommend halving and grilling their peaches — brushed with a little oil first — for a simple side for grilled meats or as dessert with ice cream.) The newest variety, Starfire, should be available starting Monday August 17, with Blazingstar just after that. The peaches are selling out quickly so check the Facebook page for the latest farm stand updates. 

At Sleeping Bear Orchards in Empire, third generation farmer Bill Casier is committed to his motto: “No peach picked before its time.” His roadside stand, stocked this week with peaches and sweet corn, is just north of the village of Empire on South Leelanau Hwy (M-22). Have small bills and exact change.

Linda Szarkowski, market coordinator for the Leelanau Farmers Markets Association says she saw the first Leelanau Peninsula peaches make their appearance at the Northport Farmers Market on Friday. The Bakkers of Bakkers Acres, and Cherry Beach Orchards — both farms in Suttons Bay — and Empire grower Dana Boomer of Still Point Market, all hope to have peaches at the five of the Leelanau markets this week and through the end of August. Note: go early; they are between ripening varieties so fruit may be limited this week.

All Leelanau Farmers Markets are held 9am to 1pm.

Glen Arbor, Tuesdays, behind the Glen Arbor Township Hall.

Leland, Thursdays, in The Bluebird parking lot, downtown.

Northport, Fridays across from the marina.

Suttons Bay, Saturdays, on St. Joseph St. at the north end of the village. 

Empire, Saturdays, downtown next to the post office.

Photo: Next-generation farmer Ezra at Bakkers Acres.