Climate change is affecting a wide range of crops and food products in Georgia and South Carolina through warmer winters, fewer chill hours, earlier blooming seasons, stronger storms and shifting rainfall patterns.
Here are 10 foods most vulnerable to climate change in Georgia, according to sources including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the University of Georgia, the Georgia Climate Project and the Environmental Defense Fund.
Peaches
Peach trees require a certain number of winter chill hours to develop properly, according to the University of Georgia. Warmer winters can reduce chill accumulation, leading to irregular blooming and lower yields. Earlier blooming also increases
the risk that a late spring freeze could damage blossoms and developing fruit.
Blueberries
Blueberries often bloom earlier during unusually warm winters, making them more vulnerable to late frosts, according to UGA. Researchers say frost events have already caused significant losses for Georgia blueberry growers.
Pecans
Pecan producers face increasing challenges from heat stress, drought and extreme weather, according to UGA researchers. Hurricanes can damage orchards, while changing weather patterns may affect tree health and nut development. Scientists are working to develop more resilient varieties.
Peanuts
Peanuts are vulnerable to both drought and excessive rainfall, according to researchers in UGA's Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. Higher temperatures can increase water stress during critical growing periods, while heavy rain can promote disease and complicate harvests.
Vidalia onions
Vidalia onions are grown in a limited region of Georgia and depend on specific weather conditions, according to the Georgia Climate Project. Heavier rainfall, flooding and temperature swings can increase disease pressure and reduce crop quality. Changes in winter weather may also affect crop development.
Oysters
Georgia's oyster industry depends on healthy coastal estuaries. According to the Georgia Climate Project, sea-level rise, warmer waters, stronger storms and changing salinity can affect oyster growth, reproduction and survival. Coastal ecosystems are among the areas most exposed to climate-related impacts in the state.
Watermelon
Watermelon production is already challenged by Georgia's hot summers, according to the Environmental Defense Fund. More frequent extreme heat and increasingly erratic rainfall can stress plants, reduce fruit quality and increase irrigation demands. Drought is expected to become a growing concern for producers.
Corn
Corn is especially vulnerable to high temperatures during pollination, according to the Environmental Defense Fund. Extended heat waves and drought can significantly reduce yields, while intense rainfall can erode soil and delay planting.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes struggle when temperatures remain excessively high during flowering and fruit development, according to the Georgia Climate Project. More frequent heat waves can reduce production, while heavier rainfall may increase fungal diseases and crop losses.
Broiler chicken production
Although not a crop, broiler chickens are Georgia's most valuable agricultural commodity, according to the Environmental Defense Fund. Extreme heat can stress birds, increase cooling costs and reduce productivity. Researchers warn that rising temperatures will create growing challenges for poultry producers across the Southeast.
This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.
Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Climate change puts 10 Georgia foods at risk | Exclusive
