In a stunning display of nature’s bounty, Noland Orchards in Palisade, Colorado, harvested a peach weighing 1.74 pounds on August 19, 2025. This massive fruit shattered the orchard’s own record from 2011, when they grew a peach at 1.5 pounds, drawing attention from locals and fruit lovers across the state.
The Discovery of the Giant Peach
Workers at Noland Orchards were picking peaches as usual when Brian Noland spotted something unusual. He noticed one fruit that stood out due to its enormous size compared to the rest.
Ashley Shearer, part of the family running the orchard, described the moment. She said her dad brought the peach in, and everyone was amazed. Photos did not capture its true scale, as it resembled a large grapefruit more than a typical peach.
The orchard is known for producing bigger than average peaches, often around half a pound. This one tipped the scales at 1.74 pounds, making it a standout in their history.
Shearer explained that thinning the trees early in the season helps fruits grow larger. By removing some buds, the remaining peaches get more nutrients and space.
Breaking Records and Making History
This peach beats Noland Orchards’ previous best from 2011 by a solid margin. Back then, their 1.5-pound peach was a big deal, but farming techniques have improved since.
Palisade has a reputation for record-setting fruits. In 2023, another local spot, Black Bear Orchards, claimed a 2.03-pound peach, which aimed to top a Georgia record of 1.8 pounds. That one awaited official confirmation from Guinness World Records.
While Noland’s peach may not claim the global title, it sets a new benchmark for the orchard. Experts say perfect weather in 2025, with hot days and cool nights, boosted crop sizes across the region.
Here is a quick look at notable peach records:
| Year | Orchard/Location | Weight (lbs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Noland Orchards, Palisade | 1.5 | Previous orchard record |
| 2023 | Black Bear Orchards, Palisade | 2.03 | Claimed world record, pending confirmation |
| 2025 | Noland Orchards, Palisade | 1.74 | New orchard record |
This table shows how Palisade continues to push boundaries in fruit growing.
Why Palisade Peaches Stand Out
Palisade sits in Colorado’s Grand Valley, where the climate creates ideal conditions for peaches. Hot sunny days and cool nights help develop sweet, juicy flavors.
The area boasts over 100 acres of orchards, including peaches, pears, and cherries. Noland Orchards, a family-run farm, benefits from the region’s 182-day growing season and abundant sunshine.
Local farmers like those at Noland thin trees to focus energy on fewer fruits. This practice, combined with fertile soil near the Colorado River, leads to larger produce.
Visitors flock to Palisade for its peaches, especially during the annual festival. The 2025 Palisade Peach Festival ran from August 15 to 16, celebrating the harvest with events and tastings.
Community Impact and Reactions
News of the giant peach spread quickly, exciting residents and boosting visits to Noland Orchards. Social media buzzed with shares and comments from fruit enthusiasts.
One local compared it to peaches from childhood, praising the flavor and size. Another highlighted how such finds put Palisade on the map as the Peach Capital.
The orchard plans to display the peach or use it in promotions. It could inspire more people to try growing their own, though experts warn it takes skill and the right conditions.
Looking Ahead for Peach Lovers
With 2025 shaping up as a banner year for Colorado peaches, thanks to favorable spring weather, more records might fall. Orchards report sweeter and larger fruits overall.
If you love fresh produce, consider visiting Palisade or checking local markets for these gems. They offer great taste and a story to share.
What do you think about this massive peach? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and pass this story along to fellow food fans.
