Desmond Layne is leaving the Southeast peach industry on a high note. The Clemson University horticulturist and tree fruit educator, who will soon be taking on a new role at Washington State University, was honored by his peers during the recent Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference in Savannah, GA.
The members of the South Carolina Peach Council awarded Layne the title of “Mister Peach,” based on his “outstanding contributions to the peach industry.” The award was presented on January 12 by Amy London, executive director of the South Carolina Peach Council.
“I am tremendously humbled and honored to receive this recognition from the peach growers that I serve,” noted Layne in accepting the award. Later in the day, Layne gave what will likely be his final presentation at the meeting, a report on recent peach cultivar evaluations and an update on his “Everything About Peaches” website.