Jones Orchard

The 600-acre operation of Jones Orchard, bustling 10 miles north of Memphis, began with an entrepreneurial spirit in 1940 who sold peaches door to door. Founder H.L. “Peach Orchard” Jones built quite a reputation for his peaches --- one of superior quality and high standards that continues nearly seven decades later under the watchful eye of his grandson Henry.

With 110 acres devoted to producing 25 varieties of peaches --- including the four original varieties and customer favorites that include Elberta, Redskin, Georgia Belle, and Indian Peaches --- the current peach expert is Lee Jones, Henry’s father and son of the late founder.

Lee has grown peaches on the farm since he graduated from college nearly half a century ago. The peaches, he notes, can't be shipped very far and must be consumed shortly after picking, which suits Jones Orchard fans just peachy, because it means much better flavor than the shipping varieties found in supermarkets.

But Jones Orchard is so much more than exceptional, distinctive peaches. Twenty acres are devoted to plums, nectarines, blackberries (the No. 2 crop), blueberries, pears, and apples, which are all available for “Pick Your Own” during peak season. Strawberries are joining the mix this year on two acres.

A 2,700-square-foot market and kitchen, managed by Henry’s mother, Juanita Jones, in Millington, contain the fruits of many labors, including homemade jams, jellies, and relishes. Pies, breads, and cookies are also made from scratch in the kitchen.

In the fall, a corn maze and pumpkin patch delight autumn visitors on 17 acres farm, where soybeans are also grown. Jones Orchard also produced cantaloupes, watermelons, squash, and okra this year.

It's no surprise, then, that the Jones were first to climb on board when the Memphis Farmers Market launched in 2006. Henry is a founding member of the MFM board of directors and serves on the vendor committee. His sense of fun is instrumental in developing the market's entertainment and special events component. Jones Orchard is one of four market vendors who accept Tennessee Senior Market Nutrition Vouchers.

“I enjoy being down at the market,” says Henry. “It’s a classy, high-energy environment with good camaraderie and a first-class operation.”

The Jones Orchard tradition is set to continue with Henry and wife Dayna's three sons: 5-year-old Cooper and 3-year-old twins Ty and Jack.