Vegetable & Fruit

Most fruit and vegetable farmers in south central New York are family-run operations located in small pockets of good soil, often in river and creek valleys. Most farms sell directly to their customers through pick-your-own, farmers markets, farm stands, community supported or agriculture programs, with a limited amount of wholesale. Organic farms are common.

South Central NY Fruit and Vegetable Program works with producers through research/demonstration projects on farms, regional workshops, a monthly newsletter (Southern Tier Produce News), and through farm visits to diagnose production problems. Your suggestions on how to tailor the program to fit your needs as a commercial fruit/vegetable grower are welcome.

Fruit and vegetable producers can contact the program for help with:

• Production practices (varieties, nutrition, irrigation, etc)
• Season extension
• Soil management
• Diagnosing and managing pest problems
• Improving efficiency in production and harvest practices
• Improve food safety, navigate food safety regulations
• Starting a fruit or vegetable farm

Finger Lakes Grape Program

Grape production is a specialized business, and Cornell has a team dedicated to grape growing and juice/wine production. The Finger Lakes Grape Program works on a subscription basis. Growers both inside and outside the Finger Lakes region can participate, see their website for details.

Gardeners

If you are a home gardener with questions related to growing fruits and vegetables, Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Master Gardener program is for you! Visit your county’s Cornell Cooperative Extension website to find the appropriate contact information.

Last updated August 18, 2023