2024 Northwest New Jersey Eggplant U-Pick farms - PickYourOwn.org

Eggplant U-Pick farms in Northwest New Jersey in 2024, by county

Below are the U-Pick farms for eggplants that we know of in this area. Not all areas of any state, nor even every state, have eggplants orchards that are open to the public. If you know of any others, please tell us using the add a farm form!

Remember to always check with the farm's own website or Facebook page before you go - or call or email them if they don't have a website or Facebook page. Conditions at the farms and crops can change literally overnight, so if you want to avoid a wasted trip out there - check with the farm directly before you go! If I cannot reach them, I DON'T GO!

PLEASE report closed farms, broken links and incorrect info using the "Report Corrections" form below.

Hunterdon County

• Chia-Sin Farms - Pick Your Own: Chinese vegetables; tomatoes; peppers; hot peppers; squash; eggplant
  215 Quakertown Road, Quakertown, NJ . Phone: (908) 730-7123. Open: Pick your own open hours Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm, Between June and October. Directions: Across from Franklin Township School. Also has a roadside market with vegetables. . Click here for a map and directions.
  Chia-Sin Farms Facebook page. .
• Phillips Farms - Uses integrated pest management practices, apples, Asian pears, blackberries, blueberries, sweet cherries, pie or sour cherries, red currants, black currants, white currants, elderberries, gooseberries, Seedless table grapes, table grapes with seeds, wine grapes, nectarines, pears, Asian pears, peaches, plums, red raspberries red, Spring red raspberries, Autumn red raspberries, Black raspberries, Spring black raspberries, Other fruit, eggplant, hot peppers, tomatoes, sunflowers, zinnias, Local honey from within 50 miles, bakery, porta-potties, Cell service cell phones work here, No dogs allowed except for service animals
  564 Milford Warren Glen Road, Milford, NJ 08848. Phone: (908) 628-9251. Alternate Phone: (908) 995-0022. Email: farmer@phillipsfarms.com. Open: season is from late May through late October; summer months open everyday except Tuesdays from 9 am to 5:30 pm; please visit our website or Facebook page for Spring and Fall hours. Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Directions: Tucked away in scenic Hunterdon County, New Jersey, Phillips Farms lies directly across the Delaware River from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. They are a little over an hour away from New York City and Philadelphia, 30 minutes from the Lehigh Valley, and 40 minutes from New Hope, Pennsylvania, and Lambertville, New Jersey. Click here for a map and directions. We use integrated pest management practices. Payment: Cash, Debit cards, All credit cards, ApplePay.
  Click here for our Facebook page.
  Click here for our Instagram page.
  Phillips Farms grows and sell their own herb plants, perennials flowers, annual flowers, bedding plants and hanging baskets at its local Farm Market in Milford as well as at the farmers markets they attend.
  (UPDATED: April 08, 2024)
  A visitor writes in June 2006: "The summer would not be complete without at least 6 visits to the Phillips Farm. My 3 children including 3 year old twins love to pick at the farm We start the season with strawberries and end in the fall with apples. The farm is quiet, plentiful and not busy at all. We feel we have the place to ourselves. Mr. Phillips has done a wonderful job raising his crops. Thank you to the Phillips Farm for great family fun and for the fabulous fruit for my pies and jams."
• Square Stone Farm - We use natural organic practices, and are subject to the NOP small quantity exemption, beans, beets, corn (sweet), cotton, cucumbers, eggplant, flowers, herbs or spices, lavender, melons, onions, peppers, summer squash, winter squash, tomatoes, other vegetables, walnuts, U-pick and already picked
  1148 State Route 12, Frenchtown, NJ 8825. Phone: . Email: farmer@squarestonefarm.com. Open: Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 10 am to 4 pm, July to October; PLEASE, Check our website before coming out to the farm!. Directions: We are approximately 1 mile east of Frenchtown at the top of the hill. . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, only. Square Stone Farm farmer at dot com. Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. (UPDATED: July 03, 2016)

Sussex County

• Tranquillity Farms - Uses integrated pest management practices, cucumbers, eggplant, flowers, herbs or spices, pumpkins, summer squash, tomatoes, other vegetables, farm-raised meat,
  10 Tranquility Farms Lane Route 517, Andover, NJ 7821. Phone: 908-979-0303. Email: tranqfarms@yahoo.com. Open: Monday through Sunday, August 1 to September 30. Directions: Take Route 80 to Exit 19. Make a right off of the exit. We are located 1 mile on the right hand side. . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover.
  Tranquillity Farms Facebook page. . Fax:. . Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Fall Fest with corn maze, wagon rides and U-pick pumpkins is open on weekends from last weekend in September to October 31. We use integrated pest management practices. , located in Allamuchy, NJ, is home to a diverse third-generation, family-run agriculture business. Set on 600 acres and farming 800 total acres, the farm prides itself on its registered Holsteins and continual expansion of crops.

Warren County

• Kash Farm - Eggplant, Peppers (Red, Green, Hot), Beans, Lima Beans, Squash (Acorn, Butternut,Spring, Green, Yellow, Scallop), Tomatoes (Grape, Cherry), Brussel Sprouts, Red Cabbage, Flowering Kale, Basil, Mint, Parsley (Curly, Italian), Pumpkins
  181 Petersburg Rd., Hackettstown, NJ . Phone: (908) 852-0570. Open: Year Round, 10 am to 6 PM Thursday - Sunday, but call to see what we have to pick before coming. Click here for a map and directions. . 3 mi NW of Hackettstown; off Rt. 46,. We also have a roadside market / farm stand with Squash (yellow, green), Lima Beans, Herbs, Eggplant, Cherry Tomatoes, Other Vegetables. We also have Greenhouse, Petting zoo; pot belly pigs; goats. Retail & Wholesale.
• Race Farm - Apples; blueberries, broccoli; cabbage; pumpkins; beans (lima, snap); peppers; tomatoes; raspberries; eggplant; greens; Brussel sprouts; sunflowers
  87 Belcher Road, Blairstown, NJ . Phone: (908) 362-8151. Email: info@racefarmllc.com. Open: Daily, Apr. Directions: I-80 Exit 12, N on Route 521 go 2 2 miles, left onto Union Brick Road, follow directional signs.In addition to u-pick, there is pre-picked: Apples; pumpkins; vegetables. Our apple varieties are Cortland; Empire; Gala; Golden Delicious; Jonagold; Jonathan; Macoun; McIntosh; Red Delicious; StaymanWinesap. We also have Nursery stock; bedding plants; baked goods; pottery; WIC and Senior FMNP checks accepted. . Click here for a map and directions.
  Race Farm Facebook page. . . 1 - November 30, 9 am to 6 pm; PYO opens first week in July for blueberries, and cherries, veggies and apples follow as they are ready; You can call the farm for daily picking schedules. I-80 Exit 12, N on Route 521 go 2 2 miles, left onto Union Brick Road, follow directional signs.In addition to u-pick, there is pre-picked: Apples; pumpkins; vegetables. Our apple varieties are Cortland; Empire; Gala; Golden Delicious; Jonagold; Jonathan; Macoun; McIntosh; Red Delicious; Stayman/Winesap. We also have Nursery stock; bedding plants; baked goods; pottery; WIC and Senior FMNP checks accepted. Our pick your own farm, at 87 Belcher Road Blairstown, will open Saturday July 7 and will remain open daily - 9-5pm, through October 31st. We look forward to another wonderful season! Our farm stand at 224 Rt. 94 is open daily year round, as is our cafe at 155 Rt. 94 Blairstown. PICK YOUR OWN! Our pick your own opens in July (with blueberries!) and runs till October 31st. We have a wide variety of fruits and veggies for picking, through the growing season. Crops available can differ week to week, so be sure to give us a call to see what we are picking on the day you visit. Atthere is never any admission fee! Free hayrides are available on weekends in the fall and you are also welcome to pack a picnic and relax in our beautiful picnic area.At the core of the farm, is our pick your own operation, which begins in July with pick your own blueberries and vegetables and continues with apples through October. We offer fresh pressed cider, baked goods, honey and homemade soups and salads. There is nothing more rewarding for our family, than seeing your family enjoying our farm! Have fun at one of our many weekend festivals which often include food and live music in a casual country atmosphere. There are never any extra charges at the farm and all are invited to relax and spend a little stress free time an old fashioned country environment! OurMarket located at 224 Rt. 94 is open daily 9am to 6pm and offers fresh produce, flash frozen locally caught fish, local meats, dairy and eggs as well as baked goods and healthy homemade soups and prepared meals. Also available is seasonal decor. We have a wide variety of fruits and veggies for picking, through the growing season. Crops available can differ week to week, so be sure to give us a call to see what we are picking on the day you visit.Atthere is never any admission fee! Free hayrides are available on weekends in the fall and you are also welcome to pack a picnic and relax in our beautiful picnic area!
  Comments from a visitor on September 20, 2009: "The best tomatoes in the state. Peppers, eggplant, cabbage, apples, raspberries. pumpkins. They have a restroom and a picnic area. No credit cards, free hayrides. Great cider and homebaked goods. Very, very nice people and great prices. I will never go anywhere else for Jersey produce. I love it. "

 

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Eggplants: Picking, Varieties, Descriptions and Recipes

Most people are familiar with the large roundish dark purple/black eggplant used in making Eggplant Parmesan. But there are many other varieties with many uses. Here's what you need to know about eggplants, how to choose them, how to harvest them and how to use them!

Know when to harvest eggplant:

•  Size and Color: Most eggplant varieties are typically harvested when they reach a mature size and have developed a deep, glossy color. The skin should be uniformly colored, whether it's purple, green, or white, depending on the variety.
•  Texture: Gently press your finger against the eggplant's skin. Ripe eggplants should feel firm but slightly yield to pressure. Avoid eggplants that have soft spots or are overly mushy.
•  Shiny Skin: Ripe eggplants have a shiny appearance, indicating that they are ready for harvest.

How to harvest eggplants

•  Tools: To harvest eggplants, you'll need a pair of sharp garden shears or a knife.
•  Stems: Look for the stem attached to the eggplant. It should be firm and green. Avoid harvesting eggplants with dry or withered stems.
•  Cutting: Hold the eggplant near the stem and carefully cut it off using the shears or a knife. Leave a short portion of the stem attached to the fruit. Make sure not to damage the eggplant or nearby foliage during the process.
•   Sharp parts: watch out for the pointy edges at the base of the stem.  They are SHARP!
•  Quantity: Harvest one eggplant at a time, or if you have multiple ripe fruits, you can harvest them in a single session.

Storing eggplant

• Handling: Handle harvested eggplants with care to avoid bruising or damage. Place them gently in a basket or container to prevent them from being squished or bumped around.
• Storage: If you're not using the eggplants immediately, store them in a cool, dry place, such as the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, but usually no longer, when properly stored. Avoid washing the eggplants before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage.
• Culinary uses: Once harvested, the eggplants are ready to be enjoyed in various recipes. From grilling and roasting to stir-fries and bakes, there are numerous delicious dishes to explore with freshly harvested eggplants.

Remember, it's essential to harvest eggplants at the right time to ensure optimal flavor and texture. By paying attention to the size, color, texture, and stem condition, you can confidently harvest ripe and flavorful eggplants for your culinary delights.

Varieties and Types of Eggplant

The most common types of eggplants and their uses are:

1.  Globe Eggplant: The globe eggplant is the most common variety and is known for its large, round shape and glossy purple skin. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Globe eggplants are versatile and can be used in various dishes, including stews, curries, stir-fries, and grilled preparations.
   
   
2. Japanese Eggplant: Japanese eggplants are long and slender with dark purple skin and a tender, delicate flavor. They have fewer seeds and a sweeter taste compared to the globe variety. Japanese eggplants are perfect for stir-fries, tempura, roasting, or grilling. Due to their thin skin, they cook quickly and can be used in recipes that require less cooking time.
    
   
3.  Italian Eggplant: Also known as the "baby eggplant" or "aubergine," Italian eggplants are small-sized with deep purple skin and a rich, slightly bitter taste. They have a firm texture and hold their shape well when cooked, making them ideal for grilling, roasting, or stuffing. They are commonly used in Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, caponata, or eggplant Parmesan.
    
   
4. Thai Eggplant: Thai eggplants come in various colors and sizes, including green, white, or striped varieties. They are small and round, similar to cherry tomatoes. Thai eggplants have a slightly bitter taste and firm texture. They are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in curries, stir-fries, and spicy salads.
    
5. Indian Eggplant: Indian eggplants, also known as "brinjals" or "baingan," have a small to medium size and come in different shapes and colors, such as round, elongated, or striped varieties. They have a slightly bitter taste and a dense, meaty texture. Indian eggplants are frequently used in traditional Indian recipes like baingan bharta (roasted and mashed eggplant), curries, pickles, or stuffed dishes.
    
6.  White Eggplant: White eggplants have a unique appearance with creamy white skin. They are similar in shape and size to the globe variety but have a slightly milder taste. White eggplants are often used in dishes where their color stands out, such as stir-fries, casseroles, or salads. They can also be grilled or baked for a subtle and elegant presentation.
   

 

 

Other Local Farm Products (Honey, Horses, Milk, Meat, Eggs, Etc.)
(NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

• Farm markets and roadside stands
• Local Honey Finder
• Local Meat, Milk and Eggs
• Venues: Farms, Wineries, Orchards for your event, wedding or party
• Easter egg hunts
• Children"s consignment sales
• Fruit and vegetable festivals
• Winery tours and wine tastings
• Horse rides, stables, lessons, trails
• Maple Syrup farms and sugarworks
• Bed & Breakfasts on Farms, Wineries, Ranches and Orchards
• Pumpkin patches
• Corn mazes
• Zombie Paintball venues
• Christmas Tree Farms & lots
• Environmental resources
• Consumer fraud information
• Wholesale food sources
• Resources for Farmers