Peach production almost doubles as growers diversify to manage rising temperatures
Apple growers in Japan’s Aomori prefecture have turned to peaches to help manage the effects of climate change.
According to a report from The Japan Times, the climate in the region has changed, with higher temperatures affecting certain apple varieties. One grower noted early-season varieties were affected in particular.
“I think everyone has noticed that these varieties no longer suit the climate here,” said a 47-year-old farmer in Hirakawa in the prefecture,” said 47-year-old Hirakawa grower Ono.
As a result, he has replaced some of his apple trees with peach trees less susceptible to heat.
“These peaches fetch high prices,” Ono said. “My livelihood hinges on my farm, so this is better than hopelessly trying to keep growing apples.”
One official from the Tsugaru Mirai Agricultural Cooperative Association said a growing number of producers have switched crops in recent years due to “concerns about rising temperatures”.
In 2014, there were 48ha of peach production in the Tsugaru region; this grew to 73ha in 2023, according to data from the Aomori prefectural government.
Japan’s Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Ministry launched a subsidy programme in 2024 to provide support for the introduction of shading nets and to help growers switch to heat-resistant fruit varieties.
“We’ll continue providing assistance to farmers who have been struggling to grow fruit like they did before,” a ministry official said.
