It is no secret that New Jersey is known for its agricultural history. The state’s fertile soil, moderate climate, and ample rainfall create ideal conditions for growing multiple crops, but one of the crown jewels of the Garden State’s agricultural output is corn ranking ninth in the United States in sweet corn production according to www.nj.gov.
Many locals and visitors eagerly await the summer months when roadside stands and farmers’ markets overflow with freshly harvested ears of corn. Known for its sweetness and quality, Jersey sweet corn is a renowned summertime favorite that has garnered a reputation far beyond state lines.
Luckily, you don’t have to go far to savor some of Jersey’s top-notch sweet corn on the cob. Your sweet corn cravings can be satisfied right here, in Hopewell Valley by visiting one of the crowd-favorite stands and markets:
Kerr’s Kornstand
Kerr’s Kornstand, a family-operated farm stand, is nestled amidst the sprawling fields on Pennington Rocky Hill Road. For nearly half a century, Kerr’s has attracted visitors from all over Hopewell Valley with its guarantee of delicious, locally grown Jersey corn.
“Our unique seed varieties, daily harvest, and irrigation practices ensure our sweet corn remains a local favorite,” said Lynn Kerr.
The Kerr family’s agricultural journey didn’t start with corn. Shortly after relocating to Hopewell in the early 1980s, Lynn and her husband George Kerr Sr. founded a dairy farm.
“We started with dairy and then peaches and tomatoes,” said Kerr. “Later on, our sons would sell sweet corn from the back of our pick-up truck,” Kerr added.
Stacey Markowitz, a regular customer of Kerr’s said “This is the best corn around and I have shopped in other places.”
Late July and August are usually the peak months for Kerr’s Kornstand. While demand tends to decrease after Labor Day, Kerr notes that customers who continue to shop throughout September find the corn sweeter at that time.
Kerr’s Kornstand business information: 317 Pennington Rocky Hill Road, Pennington, NJ 08534, 609-730-1609
Sansone Farm Market
Sansone Farm Market is a third generation family owned and operated farm land and market founded in 1914 by James “Jim” Sansone’s grandfather. Sansone took over the farm operations back in the 1980s, but has lived in the same farm house in Hopewell his entire life. “I wouldn’t trade my life for anything,” he said.
See also: Support your local farm: an interview with Jim Sansone
While sweet corn planting start time can vary pending weather and soil conditions, Sansone starts planting sweet corn weekly in mid-April for the season. Each corn stalk yields only one ear of corn. Once harvested, stalks are removed from the ground and a new one is planted.
Sansone wouldn’t reveal the name of their seeds, but emphasized that their seed variety, soil conditions, and daily fresh picks, keeps local and surrounding shoppers coming back to their farm market.
A long time customer said, “We had a sweet corn taste challenge and 25 out of 26 participants picked Sansone’s corn as their favorite.”
Want sweet corn past season? Sansone Farm Market got you covered until the end of October. “You will see fall produce out in the market, but the sweet corn will remain,” said Sansone.
Business information: 245 Lambertville-Hopewell Road, Hopewell, NJ 08525, 609-466-1323
https://www.sansonesfarmmarket.com
Jersey corn is more than just a crop, it is a symbol of the state’s rich agricultural heritage. As the Garden State continues to innovate and adapt, the golden bounty of New Jersey corn will remain a cherished staple, providing nourishment and delight to all who partake in its harvest.
