Many of Virginia’s corn producers are grappling with dismal harvests after the summer drought and tumultuous growing season.
Sweet corn is the crown jewel of a summer feast, grown on 390 Virginia farms on 3,633 harvested acres, according to the 2022 Census of Agriculture.
While summer drought conditions are not uncommon in pockets of Virginia, farmers statewide are expressing concern about the forecast. An ongoing string of hot days with low humidity will likely affect their crops.
National Farmers Market Week is Aug. 6-12, just in time for peak-season produce like berries, peaches, peppers, sweet corn and tomatoes.
Uncertainty in the tobacco market has forced Virginia growers to look at alternative crops. Some are taking advantage of the ability to grow hemp commercially, while others are growing alternative crops.