The spring of 2012 may go down in the record books as one of the nicest and longest seasons people can remember. What followed also could be memorable — record high temperatures leading to drought conditions throughout Missouri and the entire region. Otto and Susie Thierbach, owners of Thierbach Orchards and Berry Farm in Marthasville, have dodged disaster by continuously irrigating their crops. “The drought didn’t affect us a whole lot,” said Susie Thierbach. “I ran the wells constantly,” said Otto Thierbach. “I haven’t looked, but I’m sure the electric bills are pretty hefty.” The Thierbachs said the only significant impact is that all of their crops are about three weeks early. The worst hardship was on their employees picking the fruit in 100-plus degree temperatures. The hot weather also has caused some of the apples to show a little less color and some varieties are smaller than in a normal year, they said. The taste seems to be as great as every other year. “The peach crop was beautiful,” said Susie Thierbach. “And we had the biggest cherry crop ever.” The peach season is just about over, but apples are ready for the picking. Otto Thierbach said most folks don’t think about apples until it gets a little cooler, but several varieties are ripe, including Prima, Jonathan, Gala, Lura Red, Yellow Delicious, Missouri Red and Jonagold. Thierbachs Orchards provide fresh produce from two locations. The berry patch is located at 85 Town Branch Road in the Marthasville city limits. In season, people can pick their own strawberries, blueberries, tart cherries, blackberries, peaches, raspberries, blueberries and gooseberries. The market is located at 18427 State Highway 47, four miles north of Marthasville. Here you will find fresh garden produce, jams and jellies, fresh apple cider and apples. “That is the best apple cider in the world,” said Vicky Monroe, New Melle, after tasting the market’s product. “We rode in on motorcycles and we’re taking as much home with us as we can. I have a big bike.” The Ottos said next year they will add a UV treatment to their cider. It can kill E. coli and other bacteria, but will not change the consistency and flavor. The Thierbachs have stayed away from pasteurizing their cider because if affects the fresh taste. The market will be open at least through the month of October. Susie said pick-your-own fruit will be offered as long as possible. Because the apples are several weeks early, groups wishing to schedule a field trip to the orchard should plan to come in September if possible. Several schools bring children to the orchard during apple season. Activities include a bounce house, a petting zoo, corn bins, slides and mazes. Children also are treated to a wagon ride to the orchard to pick a bag of their own apples. For more information, call 636-433-2757. People can check www.thierbachorchards.com to see what is ripe. The market is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.