New Jersey, with its rich agricultural heritage, offers a unique opportunity for families, food enthusiasts, and nature lovers to engage directly with the farm-to-table process through “Pick Your Own” (PYO) experiences. While many associate the Garden State with its famous tomatoes and blueberries, it’s also a prime spot for plum enthusiasts.
Here’s your guide to the top farms across New Jersey for picking your own plums, complete with amenities, operational hours, and additional activities to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Cherries Farms in New Jersey: Top 10 Picks
Essential Picking Gear
Before we dive into the farm details, ensure you’re well-equipped for the day. A reliable fruit picker, comfortable gardening gloves, and sturdy containers are must-haves. Consider the Joyhalo Fruit Picker Tool, designed to make your picking experience easier and more efficient, especially for those hard-to-reach fruits.
- Fruit Picking Tool: For those hard-to-reach plums, consider a fruit picker with an extension pole.
- Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from twigs and the plum’s sticky juice.
- Sturdy Containers: Bring along some containers to safely transport your plums home.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen will keep you protected under the sun.
North New Jersey
1. Alstede Farms
- Amenities: Farm store, petting zoo, and homemade ice cream.
- Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily, but it’s best to check their website or call ahead as hours may vary by season.
- Additional Activities: Corn maze, hayrides, and seasonal festivals.
- Address: 1 Alstede Farms Ln, Chester, NJ 07930
- Phone: (908) 879-7189
- Email: info@alstedefarms.com
Located in the heart of Chester, Alstede Farms is a family-operated farm that offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables for picking. Plum picking is available during the season, with the farm providing hayrides to the orchards and fields.
2. Wightman Farms
- Amenities: Market with fresh produce and baked goods.
- Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM on weekends. Membership required for PYO.
- Additional Activities: Maze quest and seasonal events.
- Address: 1111 Mt Kemble Ave, Morristown, NJ 07960
- Phone: (973) 425-9819
- Email: info@wightmanfarms.com
Wightman Farms in Morristown offers a membership for its PYO program, providing access to a wide range of fruits, including plums, across its sprawling property.
3. Hillview Farms
- Amenities: Farm store.
- Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM daily during the PYO season.
- Additional Activities: Hayrides and scenic farm views.
- Address: 223 Meyersville Rd, Gillette, NJ 07933
- Phone: (908) 647-0957
- Email: info@hillviewfarmsnj.com
Located in Gillette, Hillview Farms has been providing fresh, locally-grown produce for over 150 years.
Also Read: Starting a Backyard Orchard in New Jersey: Tips and Care
South New Jersey
4. Hill Creek Farms
- Amenities: Farm-to-table cafe, bakery, and cider mill.
- Hours: Wednesday – Sunday, 8 AM – 5 PM.
- Additional Activities: Playground and picnic area.
- Address: 1631 State Highway 45, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
- Phone: (856) 223-0028
- Email: info@hillcreekfarms.com
In Mullica Hill, Hill Creek Farms offers a serene setting for plum picking, with over 17,000 apple trees and a variety of other fruits.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Corn in New Jersey (NJ): A Fun U-Pick Adventure
5. Strawberry Hill Farm
- Amenities: None listed, focusing purely on the picking experience.
- Hours: Call for hours, as they can vary based on crop availability.
- Additional Activities: Ideal for a quiet day of picking and enjoying nature.
- Address: 563 Bridgeton Pike, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062
- Phone: (856) 478-2500
- Email: info@strawberryhillfarm.com
Strawberry Hill Farm in Chesterfield focuses on sustainable farming, offering a range of organic fruits and vegetables for PYO.
East New Jersey
6. Battleview Orchards
- Amenities: Country store with fresh baked goods.
- Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, Closed on Tuesdays. Seasonal variations apply.
- Additional Activities: Apple and peach picking are also popular here.
- Address: 91 Wemrock Rd, Freehold, NJ 07728
- Phone: (732) 462-0756
- Email: info@battlevieworchards.com
Famous for its friendly atmosphere and quality produce, Battleview Orchards in Freehold allows visitors to pick their own plums, among other fruits.
7. Delicious Orchards
- Amenities: Extensive country market with bakery, deli, and more.
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 6 PM (Mon to Fri), 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Sat), 10 AM – 5:30 PM (Sun).
- Additional Activities: Tasting events and holiday-themed activities.
- Address: 320 NJ-34, Colts Neck, NJ 07722
- Phone: (732) 462-1989
- Email: info@deliciousorchardsnj.com
Not a traditional PYO farm, but Delicious Orchards in Colts Neck is a landmark country food market that sources locally grown produce, including plums, when in season.
Also Read: 14 Best Pick Your Own Apple Farms in New Jersey
8. Specca Farms Pick Your Own
- Amenities: Fresh produce market.
- Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 8 AM – 7 PM. Always confirm before visiting.
- Additional Activities: Educational farm tours are available by appointment.
- Address: 870 Jacksonville Mount Holly Rd, Bordentown, NJ 08505
- Phone: (609) 265-0678
- Email: info@speccafarms.com
Located in Bordentown, Specca Farms offers a hands-on approach to agriculture with a focus on sustainable farming practices.
Also Read: Pick Your Own Berries in New Jersey: A Sweet Summer Adventure
Central New Jersey
9. Terhune Orchards
- Amenities: Winery, farm store, and bakery.
- Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily.
- Additional Activities: Wine tasting, farm festivals, and educational programs.
- Address: 330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540
- Phone: (609) 924-2310
- Email: info@terhuneorchards.com
Terhune Orchards in Princeton is not just about picking; it’s about the whole farm experience.
10. Giamarese Farm & Orchards
- Amenities: Farm market with fresh vegetables and fruits.
- Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10 AM – 6 PM. Closed on Mondays.
- Additional Activities: Fall festivals and school tours.
- Address: 155 Fresh Ponds Rd, East Brunswick, NJ 08816
- Phone: (732) 821-9494
- Email: info@giamaresefarm.com
This East Brunswick farm is a family affair, offering a wide range of PYO crops throughout the seasons, including plums.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Peaches in New Jersey: Sweet & Delicious
FAQ: Pick Your Own Plums in New Jersey
Most farms provide containers, but it’s recommended to bring your own just in case or for extra convenience.
Some farms may charge an entry fee or require a membership for picking. Always check the farm’s website or call ahead.
Yes, many of these farms offer other activities and pick-your-own opportunities for different fruits and vegetables throughout the year.
Pet policies vary by farm. Some may allow pets in designated areas, while others do not. Always confirm before visiting.
Look for plums that are slightly soft to the touch and have a deep, even color. Staff at the farms can also provide guidance.
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat or sunscreen for protection against the sun are recommended.
Yes, many farms offer child-friendly activities like petting zoos, playgrounds, and hayrides.
Store ripe plums in the refrigerator to extend their freshness. Unripe plums can be left at room temperature to ripen.
Weather policies vary. Some farms may close during bad weather for safety reasons. Always check the weather and with the farm beforehand.
Availability varies by farm. Some offer picking every day, while others are only open on weekends or specific days. Always verify before planning your visit.
Wrapping up: The Best Pick Your Own Plums in New Jersey
Picking your own plums in New Jersey offers not just the joy of harvesting fresh fruit but also the chance to connect with the local farming community and learn more about sustainable agriculture. Each farm offers its unique charm, amenities, and additional activities, making plum picking a versatile outing for all ages.
Remember to contact the farms before your visit to confirm plum picking availability and any specific visitor requirements. With the right preparation and a spirit of adventure, your day at the farm can be a delightful experience from start to finish.
You may also like to read,
- Best Pick Your Own Pepper Farms in New Jersey (NJ)
- Best Pick Your Own Tomatoes Farms in New Jersey (NJ): Farm to Food
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Happy Picking!
