Cheshire orchard closes after 75 years in business
A longtime Cheshire orchard has announced its closing for good.
In a message shared with customers, the family that owns Drazen Orchards said it is now permanently closed and will not reopen for the foreseeable future. The orchard has been open since 1951.
The Drazen family said the decision was difficult, citing rising operating costs, the physical demands of running the orchard, and significant crop damage from winter and spring weather.
“At this stage of our lives, we are choosing to not go through another season of ever-increasing costs, hard work and long hours that go into producing a worthwhile crop,” the family wrote.
This year’s weather caused extensive damage to the orchard’s fruit crops, resulting in few, if any, peaches, pears, apples, plums, quince, or blueberries, according to the statement.
The family also said they have chosen to reduce or eliminate many of the costs associated with operating the orchard, including labor, spray applications, mowing, fuel, electricity, water, equipment maintenance, repairs and supplies. They said all of those expenses have increased over the years.
As for what comes next, the Drazens said they do not yet have a firm plan and asked people to respect their privacy as they navigate their future.
“We thank all who over the many years have visited and supported Drazen Orchards,” the family said at the end of the statement. “We are grateful to have shared fond memories and hope you will understand our decision and wish us well.”
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