Peach (Prunus persica) production in the southeastern United States, particularly in South Carolina, is challenged by high humidity, variable chill accumulation, and persistent disease pressure – especially from bacterial spot (Xanthomonas campestris pv. pruni) adn brown rot (Monilinia spp.). In response, Clemson University reestablished its peach breeding program in 2008 with the goal of developing fresh-market cultivars adapted to this region’s demanding conditions. After more than a decade of field evaluation and selection, three new cultivars have been released under the ‘CaroRes’ and ‘EveRes’ series: ‘CaroRes Wonder’ (USPP 36,072), ‘EveRes Ruby’ (USPP 36,112), and ‘CaroRes Delight’ (USPP approved). The ‘CaroRes’ name signifies both Clemson’s South Carolina origin and disease resistance, while ‘EveRes’ identifies cultivars that combine disease tolerance with a slow-softening phenotype, allowing fruit to remain firm on the tree longer than standard melting types. All three cultivars are vigorous, productive, and well-suited to southeastern U.S. orchard systems. The cultivars exhibit high fruit tolerance to bacterial spot. In replicated trials, they demonstrated reliable productivity and good pack-out percentages with minimal split pit incidence. The fruits are large, round, and clingstone, with light pubescence and a high percentage of red skin blush, ranging from 80% to 95%. All cultivars have yellow melting flesh, though ‘EveRes Ruby’ exhibits a firm, crisp texture at harvest that gradually softens over several days at room temperature, enhancing postharvest handling and shelf life. ‘CaroRes Wonder’ and ‘CaroRes Delight’ ripen in the early season, while ‘EveRes Ruby’ ripens in the early to midseason. Across all three cultivars, fruit quality evaluations consistently rated flavor, texture, and appearance highly. These releases provide new options for growers seeking disease-tolerant cultivars with excellent fruit quality, reliable performance, and adaptability to the environmental challenges of the Southeast. Their unique combination of field resilience, consumer appeal, and handling advantages makes them strong candidates for fresh-market production. Trees are available through licensed TN nurseries, including Cumberland Valley Nurseries and Vaughan Nursery.
