Apples

The 2012 USDA Census revealed that the 16 counties comprising the Eastern NY Commercial Horticulture program had over 12,500 acres devoted to apple production. The lower Hudson Valley region and the Lake Champlain region are two of the largest and most important apple production areas in New York state which ranks second in the nation for apple production and first in the country for canned apple products, although much of that crop is produced in western NY.

Apples are thought to have originated between the Caspian and the Black Seas and proof of humans' enjoyment of apples traces back at least 750,000 years. Early settlers brought apple seeds with them to the United States. Records indicate that apples were grown in New England as early as 1630. John Chapman, also known as Johnny Appleseed, along with many other traders, missionaries and Native Americans, were responsible for extensive apple tree plantings in the Midwest and beyond.

Apples are one of the most valuable fruit crops in the United States. The 9.0 billion pound U.S. 2012 apple crop was valued at nearly $3.1 billion. Apples are the second most consumed fruit (fresh and processed uses combined), following oranges. The average person consumes 44 pounds of apple products annually.

Over the last 20 years, Cornell research and extension projects have helped growers increase yields and fruit quality by increasing tree densities and improving labor efficiency. We estimate that profitability of new high density orchards is 100 to 300% greater than the traditional low-density orchards.

In 2013, Cornell University announced the introduction of two new apple varieties, SnapDragon and RubyFrost, developed through a managed release partnership with the New York Apple Growers (NYAG). The income generated through this partnership is used to market the new varieties and support Cornell's apple-breeding program.

For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at https://blogs.cornell.edu/treefruit/

Apricots

New York has a total of 87 acres devoted to apricot production, approximately 10 of which are located in the Hudson Valley. Apricots thrive in climates with long, hot summers and cool, wet winters making them a challenging crop for NY orchardists. The bulk of the US production is in California. The largest producers of apricots in the world are China and Turkey.

Apricots mature in early summer and are harvested just as the skin changes from green to yellow before the fruit is too soft and subject to bruising. The U.S. fresh market production season is relatively short, lasting from mid-May through mid-August. However, processed apricots are typically available throughout the year.

Apricot consumption is around 1 lb per person per year, with the dried market increasing over the past several decades.

For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm

Asparagus

Asparagus is a popular early-season vegetable. There are approximately 200 acres grown on 129 New York farms annually (2007 Census of Ag). The majority is sold for fresh-market, but a small amount (18 acres) goes for processing. Asparagus is available from the beginning of May through mid-June in New York. It is a popular vegetable at farmer's markets, U-pick operations, retail stands and is also grown for wholesale markets.

Commercial asparagus fields are generally planted with one-year old crowns; however, transplants can also be used. Fields take two years to establish, but afterwards can remain in production for 10 to 20 years.  
 

Beets

Did you know that New York is the second leading producer of red table beets in the US? Approximately 3,000 acres are grown annually for processing by Seneca Foods in Leiceister, NY (Livingston Co.). Most of the processing beets are grown in Genesee, Livingston and Wyoming Counties in Western, NY. Processors require specific varieties for production of certain size roots throughout the season and commonly grow Ruby Queen, Red Ace and Red Atlas.

Fresh market growers have a wide range of varieties to select from. Root colors include red, golden, or alternating red and white rings. Roots may be cylindrical or elongated. Beets can be harvested for fresh market at any stage and the greens are considered a delicacy by some. Roots harvested in the fall can be stored and sold at winter markets.

Educational and research information from Cornell Cooperative Extension can be found by clicking on the links below.

Blueberries

New York State has a little more than 700 acres of blueberries in production yielding about 2 million pounds of blueberries annually making it the 9th most important blueberry production state in the nation.  Increased consumer interest in dark colored fruit containing high amounts of healthful antioxidants has resulted in many more acres being planted over the past several years. This is despite the soil pH requirement of 4.5 that blueberries, a member of the acid-loving Ericaceae family require.

It takes nearly 8 years for blueberries to reach their mature production, but a well maintained planting can remain economically viable for up to 40 years or more yielding in excess of 10,000 lbs/acre. Ninety-five percent of this production is hand-picked and sold as fresh fruit with the remaining 5% going to value added products.

Highbush blueberries are grown throughout the majority of the state, but in northern NY and the Adirondacks, cultivars that are crosses between the Maine low-bush and northern high-bush blueberries result in a smaller bush that is much more winter hardy. The threat from late spring frosts remains a challenge to blueberry growers throughout the state. Blueberries have a relatively small pest complex making it a favorite berry for organic production.

For more information about blueberry production, visit the Cornell Berry website.

Broccoli

Broccoli is grown on an estimated 800 acres throughout New York State. Multiple plantings are typically grown along with other Cole crops such as cauliflower, cabbage and kale on small-scale diversified vegetable farms. Broccoli is predominantly grown from transplants set in April and May for a spring crop and in late June through August for a fall crop. Broccoli that is harvested in July and early August tends to have very high cull rates due to abnormalities caused by heat stress. Broccoli is cut during the cooler part of the day and sold as soon after harvest as possible, as it does not store well.

Fortunately, recent genetic breakthroughs have overcome broccoli's susceptibility to heat stress and broccoli growers in New York look forward to the availability of new varieties adapted to the hot and humid summers of the Northeastern United States. Cornell University is leading an ambitious effort to develop a $100 million broccoli industry in the Eastern United States. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are grown on roughly 88 farms in New York, with 58 acres harvested for fresh production and 2 acres for processing (2007 Ag Census). They are members of the Brassicaceae family which includes cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli. Being cool season crops, they are well suited to the New York climate. Most cruciferous crops have similar cultural requirements and are susceptible to a common set of insects and diseases.

Seeds of Brussels sprouts are typically sown in a greenhouse or seed bed about 5-6 weeks prior to transplanting into the field beginning around mid-June. Fields are ready for harvest between 90 to 180 days after planting, depending on the variety and weather conditions. In New York, harvest occurs from September through November.

Buds or sprouts grow along the sides of long, thick stalks and mature from the base of the plant upwards. They are harvested when they are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Individual buds may be hand harvested into baskets, with several harvests per season. Alternatively, entire stalks can be harvested and sold for processing or at the retail market.

Cabbage

Fertile soils and favorable climate contribute to the impressive production of cabbage in New York State. With more than 12,000 acres grown annually, New York ranks in the top three states nationally for both fresh market and kraut cabbage. Fresh cabbage is sold in retail and wholesale markets and is used for cole slaw, egg rolls and other products. Under the proper conditions, cabbage can be stored through April, making it available nearly year round. There are two large processors in Western, NY (Seneca Foods and Great Lakes Kraut). Kraut cabbage is harvested late in the fall. It is trimmed, shredded, mixed with salt and then fermented in huge vats. The product is then packed in cans, glass jars or sealed plastic bags.

Many varieties are available for fresh market, storage and kraut cabbage. Varieties also differ in their susceptibility to insects and diseases. Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators and Cornell faculty work together annually to conduct research on many aspects of cabbage production in the state. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Carrots

Carrots are a popular and versatile vegetable grown on many farms in New York. Fresh market growers have a wide range of varieties available for production intended for farm stands, farmer's markets, school lunch programs and wholesale markets. Fresh market carrots also come in a rainbow of colors. Roughly 2,000 acres of carrots are grown in Western, NY for the processing market. Blunt-tipped Nantes varieties are preferred for sliced, processed products and blocky Chantenay or Danvers types are used for dicing.

Obtaining long, straight, smooth roots can be difficult. The best soils are light-textured with few stones or well-drained muck. Good soil health is also important as excess moisture and/or compaction will limit root growth and quality. Insects, diseases and nematodes can also injure carrot roots.

Cauliflower

About 480 acres of cauliflower are planted in New York annually. Cauliflower is a member of the Brassicaceae family which includes cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. All of these crops do well in the climate of New York, but cauliflower is produced as a fall crop to avoid summer heat which can cause heads to become soft and over-mature quickly. Heads maturing in hot weather (over 80 degrees F) can exhibit riciness, leafy heads, off color, loose heads or poor wrapper leaf development. Cauliflower is typically harvested from August through November in New York. Most cruciferous crops have similar cultural requirements and are susceptible to a common set of insects and diseases.

Recently, orange and purple varieties are becoming more common along with the traditional white forms.
 

Cherries

Two main types of cherries are produced in the United States: sweet cherries and tart or �sour� cherries, the latter being used primarily for processing. Sweet cherries are produced mainly in the Pacific Northwest and California while Michigan is the leader in tart cherry production. New York grows just less than 900 acres of cherries, 150 of which are located in eastern NY. The United States is the third-largest producer of cherries in the world. The European Union-27 is the leading cherry producer, followed by Turkey.

Cherry consumption has always been good but recent information about the antioxidant health benefits has improved domestic consumption. Per person consumption is approximately 2 pounds per year.

Over the last 20 years, Cornell research and extension projects have helped growers increase yields and fruit quality by increasing tree densities and improving labor efficiency. We estimate that profitability of new high density orchards is 100 to 300% greater than the traditional low-density orchards. For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm.

Cucumbers

In 2011 there were approximately 3,000 acres of cucumbers grown in New York worth $19 million (2011 Vegetable Summary). The majority of this production is for fresh consumption, including small scale retail operations, as well as wholesale production to serve larger markets throughout the Northeast U.S. In addition to open field production cucumbers are increasingly grown inside greenhouses and high tunnels. The crop, when unhindered by pests and diseases, can provide high yields within a short harvest window. Cucumber production in New York is increasingly under threat from the foliar disease Downy Mildew (Pseudoperonospora cubensis). Thus the Cornell Vegetable Program is collaborating with partners to conduct advanced on-farm research to enhance production and marketing of cucumbers, including the development of improved varieties suited for organic agriculture. Stay tuned for more information on this project. In the meantime check out results from our variety trials and grafting work with cucumbers below.

Dry Beans

Dry edible beans are grown almost exclusively in Western NY (such as Genesee, Livingston, Monroe and Wyoming counties) and in Central NY (such as Ontario, Yates, Seneca and Cayuga counties), where soils are deep, fertile and light- to medium-textured. New York produces edible dry beans on up to 16,000 acres for local, regional (east of the Mississippi), export and organic markets. Those beans marketed regionally are either processed into canned product or packaged for the dry pack market. Value of the crop in the state varies but has averaged around $7 million/year recently.

Major types include varieties of black turtle soup and light/dark red kidney beans. Adoption of reduced, zone tillage has been occurring on a number of farms as a time and fuel-savings measure. Insect, disease and weed pests are similar to those seen on snap beans and are managed similarly. Because dry beans must mature on the plant they are out in the field much longer than snap beans, however, so there is more opportunity for diseases such as white mold to develop. Weeds must also be controlled for a much longer period.

Eggplant

Eggplant is a commonly grown fresh market crop in New York, particularly for direct-sales such as farm stands, CSAs and farmers markets. In 2010 there were 400 acres of eggplant in the state with a value of over $4 million (2011 Vegetable Summary). Eggplants yield best in New York when grown on black plastic mulch with drip irrigation. The Cornell Vegetable Program scouts eggplant weekly in the growing season to provide pest and disease updates via Veg Edge, our grower-oriented newsletter. Research projects from our program that address eggplant include grafting and specialty variety trials. Check out our links below!

Ethnic Vegetables

Production of ethnic vegetables is a growing trend on many New York farms.  A large assortment of exotic vegetable types while unfamiliar to many Americans may be a taste of home to foreign nationals, immigrants and ethnically-based communities. Most of these ethnic vegetables can be successfully grown in New York. The key to marketing is to select varieties that are familiar to the consumer group. Many immigrants are excited to be able to purchase fresh produce grown locally that would be readily available in their country of origin. Producing ethnic vegetables can be rewarding, but should be properly researched and tried on a small scale to begin.

Garlic

Garlic production has increased significantly in New York over the last few decades, and garlic is now considered to be an important niche crop. In 1992, only 11 acres of garlic were reported in New York, but by 1997 the number grew to 153 acres and by 2007 it again doubled to 306 acres. Garlic is currently estimated to be a $20 million dollar crop. New York is the fifth largest garlic producing state in the country, and ten percent of all New York vegetable farms report growing garlic. That is a higher percentage of growers than for broccoli, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, or onions.

Garlic is sold at farmers' markets from mid-summer to the fall throughout the state. Garlic is also sold at festivals which take place throughout the Northeast from August through October. New York's largest festival is in Saugerties, in September. Festivals are important outlets for growers and important agrotourism events for the cities that host them.

Varieties of garlic grown in New York tend to be different from those you will find in the grocery store. New York is known for excellent 'hardneck' garlic, which has a hard stalk running through the center of the bulb. The flavor of our hardneck garlic is often considered to be stronger and more unique than the flavor of 'softneck' varieties found in the grocery store and grown primarily on the West Coast or in China.

Grapes

Grapes are thought to have been first cultivated more than 7,000 years ago near present-day Iran. New York ranks third in wine and grape production in the U.S. (California and Washington are the top two). The 2012 Census of Agriculture reports that there are about 1200 farms with about 36,000 acres of land dedicated to grape production in New York State. Greater than half of these farms produce grapes on less than 25 acres. Eastern New York, a relative newcomer to commercial grape production, has 650 acres under cultivation.

There are four major wine producing regions in New York (Lake Erie, Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley, and Long Island). These areas are officially recognized by the Federal Tax and Trade Bureau. Improvement in cold hardiness of grape cultivars and increased consumer interest in local wine production has allowed wine trails in non-traditional grape regions to flourish (e.g. Lake Champlain Region). A small amount of acreage is even being devoted to table grapes.

The total New York grape crop value was estimated at $52.3 million at the time of the census. Grapes processed into juice accounted for 62% of the total production, with the remaining 36% and 2% going to wine and fresh market respectively.

For more information about grape production, please visit the Cornell Grape website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/grape/index.htm.

Horseradish

Horseradish is a minor crop in New York, with 5 acres produced on 8 farms (2007 Ag Census). Some of the smaller acreage is probably not reported. It is a member of the Brassicaceae or cabbage family which makes it related to turnips. The greens are edible and may be available at farmers markets in the spring/summer. However, the pungent root is generally what is cultivated and sold. Roots are generally harvested in the fall. They store well and are available throughout the winter.

Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is a minor crop in New York, but is popular at farmers markets and other retail stands. Its mild flavor makes it favorable to eating fresh and even young children like it when cut up and served like carrot or celery sticks. Both green and purple varieties are available. It is best grown in cooler temperatures and is typically available in June and July and then again in September and October. Kohlrabi is a member of the Brassicaceae or cabbage family which also includes broccoli, cauliflower and turnips. It can be susceptible to many of the same diseases and insects as other members of this family.

Leeks

There are roughly 30 acres of leeks grown in New York annually. They are an edible member of the Liliaceae or lily family. They are tender and have a mild onion flavor with a slightly sweet edge. Leeks may be planted in late February to March for harvest in early- to mid-summer. Alternatively, they may be planted in July for harvest in late fall/early winter.

Leek is an expensive crop to grow, because it is labor intensive. Hand labor is required for all stages of production including: transplanting, weeding, harvesting, washing and packing.

Information on cultural practices and pests of leeks can be found in the Leek Pest Management Strategic Plan.

Lettuce / Leafy Greens

Two dozen or more types of leafy greens are grown in New York, primarily for fresh market production.   According to the 2007 Census of Agriculture, 224 New York farms produced 1,398 acres of lettuce. Leaf lettuce is the most widely grown with 758 acres, followed by 381 acres of head lettuce and 260 acres of romaine lettuce. Lettuce is grown for local sales as well as large wholesale markets in the Northeastern, US.

Other popular greens are spinach (247 acres), collards (96 acres), escarole & endive (75 acres), kale (57 acres), mustard greens (36 acres) and turnip greens (16 acres). Additional types for which no statistical information is available include:  arugula, beet greens, bok choy, dandelion greens, radiccho, rapini, swiss chard and watercress.

Field-grown greens are available beginning from May through mid-October (depending on the type). However, the season can be extended by growing in tunnels protected from harsh winter temperatures. 

Melons

Fresh market production of melons has been an important crop for NYS growers for many years. Cantaloupe are predominantly the main type of melons grown, but Honeydew, Crenshaw, Watermelon and Gallia types can also be grown quite nicely in our climate. Recently, "personal" or "ice box" types of melons, which have been bred for individual consumer use are much smaller (2-3 pounds) and have become favorites of consumers at roadside stands and farmers markets. Nearly all the melons grown in NY are produced on raised beds mulched with black plastic and drip irrigation. Fusarium wilt, Powdery and Downy Mildew and Gummy Stem Blight remain the main disease issues with these crops. Striped Cucumber Beetles and aphids remain the major insect pests.

Nectarines

Nectarines are, in fact, fuzz-less peaches. Nectarine acreage in NYS is small � only about 66 acres of which 26 are located in eastern NY. Like other stone fruits, nectarines thrive in a Mediterranean climate of long, hot summers and cool, wet winters.

For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm.

Onions

Onions are one of the most important vegetable crops in New York State with annual sales of approximately $52 million. New York accounts for 97% of the onion production in the North Eastern United States and ranks sixth in the nation. Approximately 12,000 acres of yellow pungent cooking onions are grown from direct seed, predominantly on organically rich muck soils. This crop is stored and marketed until April. Sweet and red varieties are also grown, mostly from transplants. Hundreds of small-scale diversified farms grow onions intensively on plastic beds on less than an acre. These onions can grow very large and be lucrative in the market place where they are sold through produce auctions, farmer's markets, roadside stands and CSAs.

Continued intensive production of onions in New York has led to an array of perennial pest challenges, as well as the introduction of new pests, so that management of the onion complex in New York requires a very strategic research-based approach. Cornell Cooperative Educators and Cornell faculty work together to conduct research on many aspects of onion production in the state. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Parsnips

Parsnips are a minor crop in New York, but can be found at farmer's markets and retail stands. They are harvested in April and May or from October through December. Parsnips can be stored over the winter and are a good crop for winter farmers markets. Parsnips are a member of the Apiaceae or carrot family. They are grown much the same way as are carrots and are susceptible to many of the same diseases and insects. Like carrots they require a deep, well-drained soil. They can be grown on either mineral or muck soils.

A good summary of parsnip production can be found at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website.

Peaches

The cultivation of peaches began in China as early as 2000 B.C. The cultivation of peaches continued through the old world and was transported to the America�s where peach cultivation thrived on the east coast. By the mid-1700s, peaches were so plentiful in the United States that botanists thought of them as native fruits. Currently California, South Carolina, Georgia and New Jersey account for three quarters of U.S. peach production. New York grows over 2000 acres of peaches with more than a quarter of that located in the eastern portion of the state.

There are two types of peaches, clingstone and freestone. With clingstone peaches, the flesh �clings� to the "stone" (the pit) of the peach, making it difficult to separate. As Clingstone varieties retain their flavor and texture during processing, they are more suitable to canning and value added products.
The pit of freestone peaches separates from the flesh, making it ideal for fresh consumption. Freestone peaches are generally larger than clingstones with a firmer, less juicy texture. While most commonly eaten fresh, these peaches may also be frozen and dried.

Annual per person consumption of peaches in the United States peaked at 13 pounds in the early 1970s. By 2008 annual consumption had dropped to 8.8 pounds per person. Consumer research conducted in the mid-2000s revealed buyer frustration with mealy textures, fruit browning and lack of sweetness. This frustration has actually helped improve demand for local, NY produced peaches as there is simply nothing like a tree-ripened peach.

Over the last 20 years, Cornell research and extension projects have helped growers increase yields and fruit quality by increasing tree densities and improving labor efficiency. We estimate that profitability of new high density orchards is 100 to 300% greater than the traditional low-density orchards. For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm.

Pears

Commercial pear production is concentrated in the Pacific Northwest. New York grows approximately 1200 acres of pears, nearly half of which are located in eastern NY. European type pears predominately grown in the state including varieties like Bartlett, Bosc and D�Anjou. Asian pears, also known as �apple-pears� because of their apple-like texture, are grown on a few fresh market operations.

U.S. per capita consumption of fresh pears was 3.2 pounds in 2009. Per capita consumption of all pear products was about 7 pounds in 2010. About 60 percent of the U.S. pear crop is sold as fresh and 40 percent is processed, primarily in the form of canned product.

Over the last 20 years, Cornell research and extension projects have helped growers increase yields and fruit quality by increasing tree densities and improving labor efficiency. We estimate that profitability of new high density orchards is 100 to 300% greater than the traditional low-density orchards. For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm.

Peas

Peas are one of the first crops planted and harvested in New York. Fresh market, edible pod and processing peas are all produced. In fact, the state has a long history of processed pea production with a 10-year average of 17,689 acres grown. Processed peas are grown in fields ranging in size from 20 to 100 acres. Processors select the varieties to ensure consistent supply to the plants. The peas are machine harvested and shelled right in the field and taken to the plant for sorting, cleaning, freezing and packaging.

Fresh edible pod peas or podded peas which are shelled by the consumer are a delight in early season markets. These markets are more concerned with blemishes on the pods.

Peas are very sensitive to excess soil moisture and are susceptible to numerous soil pathogens. Weeds can quickly out-compete peas and are a special problem in late-April and May plantings when temperatures are favorable to annual weed seed germination.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators and Cornell faculty work together annually to conduct research on many aspects of pea production in the state. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Peppers

Bell, or sweet, peppers are an important crop on New York fresh market vegetable farms, worth in aggregate close to $10 million according to the most recent data (2011 Vegetable Summary). Hot peppers, such as jalapenos and habaneros, can be important specialty items for direct sales. Peppers are grown in commercial fields with floating row covers, plastic mulch and drip irrigation. For colored peppers early maturing varieties are a good choice for NY growers. Resistance to the soil-borne pathogen Phytothphora capsici is another important attribute. Greenhouse and high tunnel production of peppers is on the rise among CSA, produce auction and market farmers. The Cornell Vegetable Program conducts a number of research projects on peppers such as variety trials and organic fertility.

Plums

Nearly all of the commercially grown plums in the U.S. are hybrids of the Japanese plum introduced in the 1870s and hybridized by Luther Burbank in the late 1800s. New York produces 584 acres of plums while eastern NY is responsible for 152 acres of the total. California dominates production due to mild winters and minimal rainfall.

Consumption of fresh plums in the United States hovers at just under one pound per person, although, like many other fruit, health benefits and great flavor continue to keep consumers interested.

Over the last 20 years, Cornell research and extension projects have helped growers increase yields and fruit quality by increasing tree densities and improving labor efficiency. We estimate that profitability of new high density orchards is 100 to 300% greater than the traditional low-density orchards. For more information about tree fruit production, please visit the Cornell Tree Fruit website at http://www.fruit.cornell.edu/tree_fruit/index.htm.

Potatoes

Potatoes are grown all across NYS, though the largest farms tend to be located in Western NY, the Finger Lakes Region and on Long Island, on deep, fertile, light- to medium-textured mineral soils, and on muck (organic) soils. Potatoes are grown on small, medium and large farms, for retail, wholesale (east of the Mississippi) and organic markets, for both fresh market and processing into chips, and for certified seed potatoes. Most growers store some of their crop for winter sales. Varieties include round whites, red-skinned potatoes, yellows, and a smaller acreage of a wide variety of specialty types, such as those with blue or red skin and flesh, fingerlings, etc. Potatoes are one of the highest value vegetables in NY, grown on about 17,100 acres, with an average value of about $74.4 million recently.

Potatoes have many serious insect and disease pests. Late blight can be a devastating disease, capable of completely destroying an unprotected crop within 3 weeks in wet weather, and rotting the tubers. Late blight was the major cause of the Irish Potato Famine. It also affects tomatoes. New, more virulent strains of late blight fungus began showing up 20 years ago and the disease has been harder to predict and control ever since. Early blight is a common fungal disease on both potatoes and tomatoes which survives over-winter in the soil. Colorado potato beetles can cause serious defoliation if crops are not rotated up to a quarter mile from where they, tomatoes or eggplant were previously planted. They can rapidly become resistant to commonly used insecticides. Tiny, sucking leafhoppers move up from the south each June on weather systems, and can cause severe leaf burn and yield reduction. Aphids can also be a production problem as well as carrying viral diseases that can affect potatoes grown from saved seed. 

Pumpkins / Gourds

New York State ranks amongst the top 3 states (Illinois and Pennsylvania are the other two) in pumpkin production in the country with over 6,800 acres of production with an estimated value of $24 million each year. Nearly all of these are for fresh market use for either decorating or eating. The pumpkin industry is highly variable with fruit ranging from quarter pound to several hundred pounds each. Pumpkins are grown throughout NYS and are marketed through roadside stands, nursery centers and farmers markets and are also important in areas that have lots of agri-tourism. Included in this group are also other fall ornamentals such as gourds and ornamental squash. Pumpkins are susceptible to many different diseases, the most prevalent of those being Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew and Phytophthora blight. In the last eight years, plant breeders and seed companies have released a multitude of varieties resistant to Powdery Mildew and are widely used by growers. Another concern for growers are several different viruses which can cause plants to not produce fruit at all or results in poor fruit quality (size, color etc.). Striped Cucumber Beetles and Squash bugs remain the main insect pests. Aphids are also important because they are the primary vectors of those viruses mentioned above.

Radishes

Approximately 154 acres are produced on 57 farms (2007 Census of Ag) in New York. They are harvested from May through September.

Radishes come in many shapes, sizes and colors. Small round types are popular for salads. Radishes with long roots, including daikon varieties are a popular ethnic vegetable that can be eaten fresh or cooked in a variety of ways.

Raspberries / Blackberries

Raspberries are the most widely grown bramble crop in New York planted on over 450 acres in all regions of the state. Both floricane (summer bearing) and primocane (fall or ever-bearing) raspberries are grown and yellow, purple and black fruited cultivars in addition to the popular red raspberries make up the tasty crop. Ninety percent of the estimated 1.1 million pound annual raspberry crop is sold for fresh market and the remaining 10% is used to make value added items including preserves, juice additives and fruit wine.

Blackberries are closely related to raspberries and are grouped together with them in the 'Bramble' category of berry crops. Blackberries differ from raspberries in that the receptacle within the berry fruit is eaten along with the berry. For raspberries, the receptacle is left on the plant, leaving a hollow berry for consumption. Blackberries are also a more tender plant, successfully grown on 450 acres in more temperate regions of the state including Long Island, the Hudson Valley, the Finger Lakes region and fruiting districts near the Great Lakes.

All bramble crops need well drained soil as they are susceptible to soil borne diseases particularly Phytophthora. Potential growers should be aware of cane diseases and other pest problems, as well as the fact that raspberries and blackberries have an extremely short shelf life after harvest, making adequate post-harvest cooling essential. Brambles are often trellised adding to the production costs which can average about $4000/acre.

High tunnel production of raspberries and blackberries has been increasing throughout New York State thanks to research done by the Cornell University Department of Horticulture. This type of protected culture allows growers to extend the productive season of raspberries, extend the potential production sites of blackberries throughout the state and allows growers to produce a much higher quality fruit.

For more information about bramble culture, visit the Cornell Berry website.

Rhubarb

A minor crop in New York, 24 acres of rhubarb are grown on 57 farms in New York (2007 Census of Agriculture). Rhubarb is a perennial crop which grows well in the cool climate of New York. Growth begins when temperatures warm in the spring. The typical harvest season is May through July. Rhubarb plantings can remain productive for eight or more years. Rhubarb is relatively free of insect and disease problems, but perennial weeds can become problematic.

Rutabaga

A minor crop in New York, rutabaga can sometimes be found in farmers markets or retail stands. It is harvested from August through November. Rutabaga is thought to have originated from a cross between a turnip and cabbage. All cruciferous crops share a common set of diseases and insects. Rutabaga is grown in much the same way as turnips. 

Snap Beans

Snap beans are grown on a variety of farms throughout New York State. They are sold at roadside stands and other retail markets, wholesale markets and for processing. Snap beans come in many varieties to meet the needs of various markets and growers should consult seed suppliers and markets to select appropriate varieties. New York typically ranks 2nd or 3rd in the nation for processing snap bean production with roughly 20,000 acres grown annually. Similarly, the production of nearly 7,000 acres of fresh market beans consistently places New York in the top five producing states. 

All snap beans share a general group of insects, diseases and abiotic disorders. While weed control strategies may vary with farm type and size of plantings, herbicides labeled for production are consistent for all types. Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators and Cornell faculty work together annually to conduct research on many aspects of snap bean production in the state. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Squash - Summer

New York State has a strong industry growing winter and summer squash with over 5,000 acres produced in 2011 with a value of over 43 million dollars. A lot of summer squash is sold on the wholesale market, but nearly all of it is consumed fresh. Zucchini and Summer /Yellow squash are dominant types of summer squash grown in the area. Powdery and Downy Mildew, and Phytopthroa blight are the major diseases we are concerned with. Viruses are of major importance for summer squash growers and have led to plant breeders and seed companies to develop and release many different virus resistant varieties.

Squash- Winter

New York State has a strong industry growing winter and summer squash with over 5,000 acres produced in 2011 with a value of over 43 million dollars. There are many different types of winter squash that are grown including hubbard, buttercup and spaghetti, but butternut and acorn types are the two dominant ones for production. Winter squash is also sold for wholesale and fresh market use. There is also a significant amount of butternut squash that is cut and peeled and repacked and sold through grocery stores. Powdery and Downy Mildew, and Phytopthroa blight are the major diseases we are concerned with.

Strawberries

New York State ranks 8th in the nation in strawberry production. Statewide there are over 1700 acres in production yielding 3.6 million pounds with a cash value of nearly 8.5 million dollars. The vast majority of the crop is sold from late May into early July as part of the June bearing crop that is grown in a perennial matted row system. This crop has a significant emotional bond with consumers. Strawberries have long been the first locally grown crop of the season. Picking strawberries is one of the most popular agricultural activities in upstate NY with most communities hosting delicious strawberry festivals. Ninety-five percent of the crop is sold this way, often picked by customers and always for immediate fresh consumption. The remaining 5% of the crop is used for value-added processing.

With the advent of ever-bearing (also called day neutral) varieties many strawberry farmers have been able to offer NY consumers high quality, locally grown fresh strawberries later in the season - from August to November. Other production innovations include growing on plastic mulch to help reduce herbicide inputs and growing strawberries in high tunnels to lower the incidence of botrytis gray mold and other pests.

For more information about strawberry production, visit the Cornell Berry website.

Sweet Corn

Sweet corn is popular with consumers and growers alike. New York typically ranks in the top 5 producing states with nearly 25,000 acres of fresh market and 10,000 acres of processed product grown annually.

A range of varieties are available to cover the growing season and needs of each market. Fresh market corn may be planted in March under plastic or later on bare ground. Planting of processing sweet corn in New York begins around May 1st with varieties selected to maintain a steady supply into mid-September.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators and Cornell faculty work together annually to conduct research on many aspects of sweet corn production in the state. Below you will find educational information and results of our research trials.

Sweet Potatoes

Although sweet potatoes have been grown in New York, they have received much more attention in the last couple of years due to the value of the health benefits it offers. Even though acreage is not normally recorded, we estimate that there are over 200 acres of sweet potatoes being grown throughout NYS. However, due to the long growing season that is required (100 days plus), they are generally produced on raised beds mulched with black plastic. Orange skinned, orange fleshed types are the dominant types grown here, but there are also white skinned, white fleshed and orange skinned, white fleshed varieties grown in the state. Sweet potatoes have also gained popularity with organic producers to replace winter squash production due to the fact that they have almost no disease or insect problems when grown here and can be stored longer then winter squash in many cases. The increase in winter farmer's markets or winter CSA shares has also increased sweet potato production in NY. However, deer and mice can be major vertebrate pests of sweet potatoes. Variety trials, plant density research and the use of floating rowcovers for increased production are being evaluated in the Capital District region of NY.

Tomatoes

In 2011 Empire State farmers planted 3,000 acres of tomatoes for an estimated value of nearly $37 million (2011 Vegetable Summary). Most field production is devoted to determinate cultivars, with plastic mulch, drip irrigation and stake-and-weave trellis essential production elements for early and quality yields. Greenhouse (and high tunnel) production is on the rise in New York with structures of less than 1/10th to in-excess of 40 acres under protection. Indeterminate, greenhouse lines, as well as heirloom varieties are grown under protected culture. Tomatoes are a popular crop with New York fresh market vegetable farmers due to high demand and fair prices. The Cornell Vegetable Program conducts a number of research projects each year addressing improved tomato production. Check out the links below to learn more.

Turnips

Roughly 89 acres of turnips are produced on 43 farms in New York. Turnips are in the Brassicaceae or cabbage family, which includes radishes. Seeds are planted in the spring or early summer for harvest from May through November. Turnips store well over the winter and are a good crop for winter farmers markets. 

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Schaghticoke, NY

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