There are many different varieties of peaches. What I didn’t know, however, is that some are better for canning than others. The way to know if the peaches you have are good for canning or not is to know if they are freestone or clingstone peaches.
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Clingstone Peaches
Clingstone peaches are peaches where the peach does not come away easily from the pit of the peach. These kinds of peaches are fine for eating or for making pies or other desserts, but if you are looking for peaches to can, you will have to cut them into slices.
Clingstone peaches are generally smaller and sweeter than freestone peaches.
Clingstone peaches are ripe earlier than freestone peaches. They are available from mid-May to August.
Related Article: Best Peaches for Canning: Sweet and Juicy Varieties to Try
Freestone Peaches
Freestone peaches are the most popular peaches for canning. They are larger than clingstone peaches, and look beautiful when halved in your canning jars.
Popular varieties of freestone peaches:
- Elberta
- Redhaven
- Hale
- Fairhaven
- Red Globe
These are just a few of many peach varieties. Types may vary depending on your location.
Freestone peaches are available late May to October.
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- Peach Crumb Bars
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- Canning Peach Salsa
- How to Store Fresh Peaches
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In case you missed it:
Can I use pectin instead of clear jel?
Hi! Pectin and Clear Jel are not interchangeable. Pectin is used to make your jams and jellies set, but I don’t think it thickens the same way that Clear Jel does. Clear Jel is a type of cornstarch that is safe for canning. Instant Clear Jel can be used even in cold foods to thicken runny salsas and puddings. I use it a lot!
I have ordered some Colorado peaches. Are they freestone?
That’s a good question, I’ve never heard of that variety of peaches!
I think she means peaches *from* Colorado, such as Palisade peaches (which are typically Red Globe and Cresthaven).
Based on the information you provided I believe they would fall in the category of Freestone peaches. Can you confirm this? 🙂
Here is their site for more info: https://www.peachfork.com/new-page/