We’re celebrating our 40th year of farming in Chester, NJ and are excited to share our humble roots with you. Farmer Kurt W. Alstede started farming on a couple acres of farmland located in Chester Township, NJ back in 1982. The farmland was originally owned by the Mennen family purchasing the land in the late… Read More »

Peas may be thought of as a vegetable, however, are actually a legume belonging to the same family as beans, peanuts, chickpeas and lentils. Peas grow on a vine in pods and are easy to tell when ripe for picking as they become plump. They are in season in NJ mid June through July and… Read More »

Asparagus is a nutrient-dense perennial vegetable and a member of the lily family. It is only harvested during spring months in our area, so when it’s available be sure not miss the chance to savor some of these tender veggies. Remember that eating in season and eating local is more sustainable and tastes best! We… Read More »

March 8th celebrates International Women’s Day around the globe and Alstede Farms recognizes the important achievements of women around the world and in our own backyard. Alstede Farms is fortunate enough to have several dynamic women in leadership positions along with being part of the succession plan for the farm. We are happy to highlight… Read More »

Potatoes are a starchy tuber root vegetable with a very popular appeal and following. They are a veggie favorite and loved by so many depicted by their popularity in cuisines around the world. Each country has its own delicious way of preparing potatoes making them an all time favorite food for all ages. Potatoes are… Read More »

Nothing tastes as delectable as in-season produce which has been sun kissed, field ripened, and fresh picked, providing the perfect combination for appetizing, nutrient dense fruits and vegetables. It’s late Summer season on our farm and did you know that so many wonderful items are still being harvested including ; peppers, tomatoes, sweet corn, eggplant,… Read More »

Eggplant, also known as Aubergine, is technically a berry, although regarded as a vegetable in cooking. The name for eggplant is said to have originated due to it’s resemblance to white eggs, as the variety of eggplant brought to North America by the European immigrants was white. Eggplants are in the nightshade family along with… Read More »

Strawberries are the first fruit to ripen on our farm and our first “pick your own” crop. We grow approximately 25 acres of strawberries on our 600 acres of farmland in both Chester & Washington Townships. Our strawberries are grown utilizing two techniques, matted row and raised bed. Matted row growing uses straw mulch in… Read More »

It’s that wonderful time of year again—farmers’ market season! With over 17 farmers markets across New Jersey, there’s a good chance we’re at one in your neighborhood. That means 17 opportunities to connect with your food, meet your local farmer, and enjoy the freshest seasonal produce. Where Can You Find Us? We’re thrilled to bring… Read More »

Walk on the Wild Side by planting yourself at a local farmer’s market There is so much to see and explore. Let’s go on a tour to learn more about them. What is a farmers market? A farmer’s market is where growers can sell their items directly to the consumer. It is said that farmer’s markets… Read More »

The first week of CSA took place this week! It’s such an exciting week for our entire team as we get to share the fruits of our labor, literally! Our regenerative farm uses a variety of sustainable farming practices including crop rotation, water conservation, and crop cover. One of the crop covers this season was… Read More »