NJ Blueberry Loadings Start, Veggies Coming Soon

NJ Blueberry Loadings Start, Veggies Coming Soon

IMG_7021While the folks in New Jersey who are paid to promote Jersey agriculture, they are touting great crops of peaches, blueberries and vegetables this year.  However, excessive rains the first half of June may have an impact on shipments.  Just keep an eye on what you are loading in case quality has been adversely affected. 

Full crops of peaches and  blueberries are being forecast for this season.  Blueberry loadings are just now starting in the southern part of New Jersey, while peach shipments should get underway in mid July and continue into mid August.

The asparagus harvest is underway and other vegetables are expected to follow soon.

New Jersey ranks second nationally in blueberry shipments.

However, most agricultural products are in the greenhouse and nursery products sector. Roses, chrysanthemums, geraniums, lilies, orchids and poinsettias are all grown for the urban markets. Nursery products include grass sod and ornamental shrubs (arborvitae, holly, juniper).

Concerning produce, New Jersey ships significant amounts of of asparagus, bell peppers, eggplant, endive, lettuce and spinach.

Cabbages, snap peas and corn are also raised.  Additionally, the state has  apples, peaches and strawberries, although the later is mainly involvedwith pick your own operations.

Two of the biggest markets for Jesery produce are New York City and Philadelphia, although shipments do occur in many other eastern markets.