Apple picking in NJ looks different in 2026. An early-April freeze damaged orchards across New Jersey, and several well-known farms, including Battleview Orchards, Eastmont Orchards and Sun High Orchards, canceled pick-your-own apples this fall. However, farms such as Alstede Farms, Demarest Farms, Melick’s Town Farm and Wightman’s Farms still reported picking in September, while others offer limited picking. Always check a farm’s latest update before driving out.
Key Takeaways
- A spring freeze in early April 2026 hit New Jersey fruit farms hard, with some losses reported above 90 percent.
- Several popular orchards canceled apple picking for 2026, while others are open with limited varieties.
- Go early in the season, because smaller crops mean popular varieties may sell out quickly.
- Some farms require timed tickets or online reservations, including Alstede Farms and Demarest Farms.
- Pumpkins, cider, hayrides and corn mazes are still widely available, even where apples are scarce.
Farm status in this guide reflects reports published in mid-September 2026. Conditions change weekly during the season, so confirm with each farm before your visit.
Why Apple Picking in NJ Is Different in 2026
Unusual spring weather caused the problem. In early April, a burst of very warm temperatures pushed fruit trees into early bloom. A sharp drop below freezing followed, killing many of the blossoms that would have become this fall’s apples.
The damage was not limited to apples. According to reports citing the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, peaches, cherries, pears, grapes, plums and several berry crops were also affected, and some farms reported losses above 90 percent.
As a result, New Jersey’s 2026 apple season has fewer open orchards, smaller fruit at some farms and fewer varieties. Nevertheless, many farms have adapted by leaning on pumpkins, fall festivals and farm markets.
NJ Farms Offering Apple Picking in 2026
The following farms reported apple picking this season, based on regional news coverage in September 2026. Farms marked “limited” warned that availability could be reduced or could end early.
| Farm | Town | County | 2026 status | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alstede Farms | Chester Township | Morris | Open | Buy tickets online before arriving; hayrides, corn maze, ice cream stand |
| Demarest Farms | Hillsdale | Bergen | Open | Online reservation required; cider doughnuts, petting zoo, hayrides |
| Melick’s Town Farm | Califon and Oldwick | Hunterdon | Open | Two locations; cider, hard cider and weekend wagon rides |
| Wightman’s Farms | Morristown | Morris | Open (weekends) | Farming since 1922; fall festival with hayrides and corn maze |
| Mood’s Farm Market | Mullica Hill | Gloucester | Open, limited fields | Bring your own containers; hayride packages in fall |
| Giamarese Farm and Orchards | East Brunswick | Middlesex | Limited | More than a dozen apple varieties in a normal year; sunflower and corn maze |
| Terhune Orchards | Princeton | Mercer | Limited | Dwarf trees suit young pickers; weekend fall festivals |
| Phillips Farms | Milford | Hunterdon | Limited (weekends) | Call ahead because of the reduced crop |
North Jersey picks
Alstede Farms in Chester is one of the state’s best-known pick-your-own destinations, and it normally grows dozens of apple varieties. Nearby, Wightman’s Farms in Morristown has operated since 1922 and pairs picking with a busy farm market. In Bergen County, Demarest Farms in Hillsdale is the closest option for many families near New York City, but you must reserve online first.
Central Jersey picks
Melick’s Town Farm in Hunterdon County describes itself as one of New Jersey’s largest fruit growers, with orchards at Califon and Oldwick. Giamarese Farm in East Brunswick and Terhune Orchards in Princeton are open with limited supplies, so an early visit is wise.
South Jersey picks
Mood’s Farm Market in Mullica Hill reported limited field selection this year. Other South Jersey farms have announced mixed plans, which makes calling ahead especially important in Gloucester, Burlington and Salem counties.
NJ Orchards That Canceled Apple Picking in 2026
Several orchards announced they would not offer pick-your-own apples this season. Many still run farm markets, bakeries or pumpkin picking, so a visit can still be worthwhile.
| Farm | Town | 2026 apple picking |
|---|---|---|
| Battleview Orchards | Freehold | Canceled |
| Eastmont Orchards | Colts Neck | Canceled |
| Sun High Orchards | Randolph | Canceled |
| Ripple Hill Farm | Basking Ridge | Canceled |
| Donaldson Farms | Hackettstown | Canceled |
| Strawberry Hill Farm | Chesterfield | Canceled |
| Beemerville Orchard | Sussex | Closed for now; hoped to reopen later in the season |
News reports disagreed about a few other farms, including Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford, Hillcrest Orchard and Dairy in Branchville and Stone Tavern Orchards. Therefore, check their latest posts before planning a trip.
When Is Apple Picking Season in New Jersey?
In a typical year, apple picking in NJ runs from late August into October, and some farms continue into early November. Early varieties ripen first, while late-season apples hang on the trees longest. In 2026, however, smaller crops may shorten the season at many farms.
| Typical timing | Common varieties | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Late August to early September | Early types such as Gala | Best for summer-into-fall trips |
| September | Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Jonagold | Peak picking at most farms |
| October | Fuji, Red Delicious, Empire | Pairs well with pumpkin picking |
| Late October to November | Granny Smith, Pink Lady and other late types | Only at farms with late crops |
Ripening dates vary by farm and by weather. Many orchards post a weekly “what’s ready” list, which is the best guide to what you will actually find.
Tips for Apple Picking in NJ This Fall
- Check the farm’s update the morning you go. Status can change from one weekend to the next.
- Book tickets in advance where required, since reservations limit crowds.
- Arrive early. With smaller crops, the best trees are often picked over by midday.
- Pick carefully. Lift and twist the apple instead of pulling, which protects next year’s buds.
- Bring cash and cards. Payment methods vary from farm to farm.
- Wear sturdy shoes. Orchard rows can be muddy after rain.
- Have a plan B. If apples run out, most farms still offer pumpkins, cider and hayrides.
Apple Picking Alternatives When Orchards Are Short
A thin apple crop does not have to cancel your fall outing. Many New Jersey farms still offer plenty to do.
- Pumpkin picking: Pumpkins and winter squash were less affected by the April freeze.
- Farm markets: Many farms sell apples, cider and baked goods even without pick-your-own.
- Cider doughnuts and pies: Farm bakeries remain a fall highlight.
- Corn mazes and hayrides: Weekend festivals continue at many farms.
- Fall foliage drives: Hunterdon, Morris and Warren counties pair well with a farm stop.
What to Bring for Apple Picking in NJ
A little preparation makes a farm visit smoother, especially in a short season. Use this checklist before you leave home.
| Item | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Printed or mobile tickets | Farms with timed entry may turn away walk-ups |
| Closed-toe shoes | Orchard rows can be uneven and muddy |
| Sunscreen and water | September afternoons can still be warm |
| Your own bags or containers | Some farms, such as Mood’s, ask pickers to bring containers |
| Cash and a card | Farm stands and markets differ in what they accept |
| A cooler for the ride home | Keeps apples, cider and baked goods fresh |
How to Store Apples After Apple Picking in NJ
Freshly picked apples last longer when they are stored cold. Keep them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer rather than on the counter. Additionally, store apples away from leafy greens, because ripening apples release ethylene gas that speeds up spoilage in other produce.
Sort your haul as soon as you get home. Bruised apples spoil fastest, so use them first in pies, sauce or baking. Meanwhile, firm, unblemished apples are best for snacking over the following weeks.
How Apple Picking Fits a New Jersey Fall Weekend
Farm trips combine easily with other outings. For instance, a morning at Terhune Orchards pairs naturally with an afternoon in Princeton. Similarly, a visit to Alstede or Wightman’s can lead to a walk in Morristown. For more ideas, see our list of the best things to do in NJ, or browse the Food & Drink section for more farm and dining guides. Our homepage lists every new seasonal guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Picking in NJ
Is apple picking open in NJ in 2026?
Yes, at some farms. Alstede Farms, Demarest Farms, Melick’s Town Farm and Wightman’s Farms reported picking in September 2026, while several orchards canceled after an early-April freeze.
Why are there fewer apples in New Jersey this year?
In early April 2026, very warm weather pushed trees into early bloom, and a hard freeze followed. The frost killed many blossoms, and some farms reported losses above 90 percent.
Which NJ orchards canceled apple picking in 2026?
Farms that announced cancellations include Battleview Orchards, Eastmont Orchards, Sun High Orchards, Ripple Hill Farm, Donaldson Farms and Strawberry Hill Farm.
When is apple picking season in NJ?
In a normal year, apple picking in New Jersey runs from late August through October, with some farms continuing into early November. Smaller 2026 crops may shorten the season.
Do I need tickets to go apple picking in NJ?
At some farms, yes. Alstede Farms asks visitors to buy tickets online before arriving, and Demarest Farms requires an online reservation.
What can I do if a farm runs out of apples?
Most farms still offer pumpkin picking, cider, doughnuts, hayrides and corn mazes, so a fall farm trip is still worthwhile.
Planning Your 2026 Apple Picking Trip
Apple picking in NJ is still possible in 2026, but it takes more planning than usual. Start with farms that reported open picking, such as Alstede, Demarest, Melick’s and Wightman’s, and treat limited farms as a bonus. Go early in the season, book tickets where needed and check updates the same day. Even if apples run short, New Jersey farms still deliver cider, pumpkins and a classic fall day out.