Washington’s sweet corn surprise

Daniel Schafer
Communications

You might think of corn as a distinctly midwestern crop. Drive through Illinois or Iowa and you’ll see  field after field of it. But corn is an ancient grain with roots in the western hemisphere. According to the Smithsonian Institute, “Humans first started selectively breeding corn’s wild ancestor teosinte around 9,000 years ago in Mexico.” The story of corn is a fascinating one, especially because it has become a central crop for the United States. In fact, it is grown in every state. In this blog, we’ll explore corn’s role in Washington agriculture.

Sweet corn and field corn

The reason you might see so much corn on a road trip across the United States is that it’s the number one field crop in the country in terms of production. But there are two main types of corn: sweet corn and field corn, and each has its own uses. Sweet corn is eaten fresh, and it’s the type you get at the grocery store in the can or from the freezer section. Meanwhile, field corn is used to produce products like cornmeal. It’s also used for cattle feed and ethanol.

It’s primarily field corn that is grown in the fields of Illinois and Iowa. Meanwhile, Minnesota, Washington, and Wisconsin are the top three states for sweet corn production.

Washington's sweet corn

Grant County leads the way in sweet corn production in Washington, but farms across the state grow it. In fact, in 2022 Washington farmers harvested 69,500 acres of sweet corn on the way to a total production of 14,565,800 CWT and a total production value of $114,173,000, according to USDA.

But it’s not just the production value that makes sweet corn important to Washington farms. That’s because it’s a rotation crop — one that’s used to give soil time to regenerate after growing other crops. In Washington, those crops are often potatoes or wheat.

Much of the sweet corn grown in Washington — about 87% — is processed. That is, it’s canned or frozen. You can learn more about how corn is processed by watching this clip from Washington Grown:

Try Washington sweet corn this season — or enjoy it later!

We said earlier that there are two main types of corn, but there are many specific varieties. One thing they all have in common, though, is that they’re a great source of vitamin C. One of the great things about Washington sweet corn is that, even though its flavor is unbeatable when fresh, it still tastes great (and is good for you) from the can or out of the freezer. So whether you enjoy it fresh (we’re in the tail end of harvest season now) or you store it away in your freezer to enjoy this winter, Washington sweet corn is always a great choice!

The backyard gardener's favorite root vegetable: Carrots

Daniel Schafer
Communications

Carrots may be the quintessential backyard or community garden vegetable. They also have quite the
pedigree. Scientists believe these tasty roots originated in present-day Iran and Afghanistan. We also think it was first cultivated by farmers between four and five thousand years ago. In other words, people have been enjoying carrots for a long time!

A Washington state specialty

Carrots grow especially well in Washington. That’s one reason why they’re so popular in backyard and community gardens, as well as among commercial farmers. In fact, Washington is the nation’s #1 producer of processing carrots (we’re the #4 producer of fresh carrots). Each year, about 10,000 acres of carrots are grown in the state, with an annual crop value of about $15 million, according to the Washington State University Extension.

One reason carrot growers are so prolific in Washington is our climate. Carrots want lots of sun but prefer mild temperatures that can offer cool soil. 

Want to learn more about carrot production in Washington? Check out this episode of Washington Grown!

Carrots are packed with things that can help you stay healthy

Growing up, you probably heard that eating carrots is good for your eyes. Good news! Research backs that claim up. In fact, carotenoids, which are found in carrots, may decrease the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

 

In addition to helping your eyes stay healthy, carrots are a great source of Vitamin A. And if it weren’t for carrots, Americans would have a hard time getting enough of it. That’s because the average American gets about 30% of their Vitamin A from carrots!

Finally, did you know that some varieties of carrots have their own unique benefits? For example, red carrots can help rid your body of toxins.

Carrot season in Washington

Carrots have a long harvesting season. That means, if you love Washington-grown carrots, you’re in luck. You should be able to get your hands on fresh carrots by visiting a nearby farm stand. As autumn begins in Washington, be sure to include plenty of carrots on your plate!

Summer’s sweet treat: Watermelon

Daniel Schafer
Communications

Watermelon is one of the most beloved summer treats in the U.S. Americans eat more of it than any other melon — more than 14 pounds per person per year! In fact, we eat so much watermelon that domestic production can’t keep up with demand. The U.S. imported about 1.7 billion pounds of watermelon in 2019, which is about one-third of all the watermelon consumed here. 

Yes, it’s safe to say that we love watermelon. But because it typically grows in very warm climates, you may not think of it as a Washington crop. In this blog, we’ll share everything you need to know about Washington-grown watermelon and why it might be a good addition to your community or backyard garden.

Watermelon: A sweet treat packed with good stuff

There’s some debate as to whether watermelon is a fruit or a vegetable. The National Watermelon Promotion Board says that it could be considered either — or both! But regardless of whether we call them a fruit or a vegetable, one thing is undeniable: they’re really good for you. In fact, watermelon is a good source of Vitamin A, which contributes to eye and skin health. It also has Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C, both of which help strengthen your immune system. Watermelon is also a good source of potassium. 

But beyond having plenty of vitamins, watermelon can also help you hydrate. In fact, watermelon are made up of over 90% water. This is probably one reason why it’s such a popular summer snack!

Washington-grown watermelons

While Washington is not one of the top producers of watermelons in the U.S., they do grow well here. In fact, two separate trials conducted by Washington State University’s Vegetable and Research Extension showed that over 130 varieties of watermelon can be grown in our state. And while you might assume the trials were conducted in hot, sunny Eastern Washington, they actually took place in Mt. Vernon and Vancouver.

Even though WSU's watermelon trials took place on the west side of the state, growing them there requires some extra special care  — and quite a bit of luck. Once your watermelons begin to grow, it’s a good idea to get them off the ground to keep the fruit from rotting. Even though they need a lot of water, watermelon don’t want to wallow in it. Once that’s done, you’ll need to hope for a string of hot, sunny days. Without them, your watermelons will probably not ripen. 

It’s a different story in central and south-eastern Washington, though, where summer holds on well into September. In this part of the state, gardeners and farmers will need to make sure their watermelons are getting plenty of water, but the sunshine probably won’t be in short supply. It’s thanks to this part of the state that Washington is able to produce some watermelon commercially. In fact, according to Oregon State University, Washington and Oregon cultivate nearly 2,000 acres of watermelon each year.

The end (of watermelon season) is near

Washington-grown watermelon are in season now. With summer winding down, don’t miss your last chance to get your hands on one of these locally-produced sweet treats. It’ll be sure to help brighten your day as we count down to autumn.

A Washington-grown superfood: Cranberries

Daniel Schafer
Communications

When it comes to cranberries, Washington State is a hidden gem. While the Evergreen State might notnbe the first place that comes to mind when you think of cranberry production, our state is one of only a handful of states that grows them. In this blog, we’ll offer some insights on Washington’s cranberry production, as well as why we should be grateful to have this superfood growing in our metaphorical backyard.

Cranberry production in Washington state

Cranberry harvest is on the way — September through November is peak season — and based on yields from past years, the state will likely produce over $10 million worth of these tart berries. 

Washington is home to over 100 cranberry growers who cultivate on average 1,600 acres, according to the Oregon State University Extension Service. These farmers power the Washington cranberry industry to a top five national ranking in terms of production, with Washington producing over $175,000 barrels in 2016, according to USDA.

Farmers have been growing cranberries in Washington since the late 19th century. Today, there are three growing regions in the state: The Long Beach Peninsula (Pacific County), Grayland (Pacific and Grays Harbor Counties), and Lynden (Whatcom County).

The state's unique climate, with its cool temperatures and plentiful rainfall, creates the perfect conditions for cranberry cultivation. These shallow-rooted evergreen vines that grow low to the ground and are long-lived perennials.

You can learn more about Washington cranberries from this clip from Washington Grown.

A Washington superfood

Only about 5% of cranberries grown in the U.S. are sold fresh. Most of the remaining 95% are processed into juices, though some are also dried. However you consume cranberries, there’s no doubt that they are incredibly good for you, offering numerous health benefits.

Rich in antioxidants: Cranberries are loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin C, quercetin, and anthocyanins. These compounds help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Anti-inflammatory properties: Chronic inflammation is linked to various health problems. Cranberries contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Incorporating cranberries into your diet can be as simple as adding them to salads, yogurt, smoothies, or baked goods. Whether you enjoy them for their unique tart flavor or their potential health benefits, cranberries are a tasty and nutritious addition to your diet.

From (marshy) field to kitchen: Cranberry culinary adventures

Cranberries are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. From traditional cranberry sauce to creative dishes like cranberry-stuffed chicken breast or cranberry salsa, these berries add a delightful tangy twist to any meal.

One of the most popular uses for cranberries is in baking. Cranberry muffins, scones, and cookies are beloved treats that showcase the tartness and vibrant color of these berries. Consider trying your hand at baking a cranberry pie or tart, which combines the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries with a flaky, buttery crust.

Whether you’re baking or adding fresh cranberries to salads or salsas, this Washington-grown crop is a healthful delight that can’t be missed. Cranberry harvest is on the way. Be sure you don’t let the season pass without trying delicious Washington cranberries!

The backyard gardener's delight: Zucchini

Daniel Schafer
Communications

When it comes to summer gardening, zucchini shines. While zucchini is grown commercially in many states, it's probably best known for being one of the most prolific producers for backyard gardeners. Whether you're looking for a vegetable to anchor your home garden, or you want to add some variety to your plate, zucchini is one crop people in Washington can usually depend on.

Washington's backyard gem

Washington is known for its agriculture. From apples, cherries, and potatoes to wheat, cattle, and wine, the list of Washington's agricultural achievements is long. But traditionally, zucchini is not among those widely known and massively produced foods in our state.

While Washington might not top the charts as a leading squash producer in the U.S. — USDA lumps zucchini in with other varieties of squash in its yearly data — zucchini has firmly established itself as a mainstay in the state's backyards. That’s due in part to the Pacific Northwest's mild climate and fertile soil providing an ideal environment for zucchini cultivation. Because this vegetable flourishes in Washington with relative ease, it’s a prime choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. The bountiful harvests zucchini yields have led it to become a staple in local gardens, enriching both home-cooked meals and community connections, as many gardeners have experienced the yearly ritual of trying to give away all the extra zucchini they grow.

The versatile zucchini

Aside from the fact that most backyard gardeners end up with more zucchini than they can consume all at once, what truly sets it apart is its incredible flexibility in the kitchen. You can use zucchini for culinary creations that fit almost every taste, from an easy breakfast (mix zucchini chunks into your eggs), to a filling dinner (add some zucchini to your stews or soups), to dessert (zucchini bread), there's not much this squash can't do.

One of the most exciting opportunities that zucchini offers is for people looking for gluten-free options. For example, zucchini pasta and zucchini brownies offer flour-free alternatives to traditional pasta and baked goods.

Try adding zucchini to your garden

If you're thinking about starting a backyard or community garden but you're not sure what to plant, consider zucchini. Its generous yield and flexibility in the kitchen make it a rewarding addition to any garden, big or small. Novice gardeners will find solace in zucchini's forgiving nature, while experienced horticulturists can explore innovative ways to maximize their harvest. What's more, while giving your extra zucchini to friends and neighbors is a great way to share your bounty, you can also freeze it so you can enjoy this tasty veggie year-round (jump ahead to the 7:00 mark in this video to learn how). In so many ways, zucchini is a Washington crop that just keeps giving. 

Washington's blueberry bounty: A true taste of northwest delight

Daniel Schafer
Communications

When it comes to blueberries, Washington state can take a bow. That’s because our state is the #1
producer of blueberries in the world. In this blog, we’ll unpack why Washington provides such a favorable growing environment for blueberries, as well as what it means of all Washingtonians. 

Washington is a global blueberry leader

It's no understatement to say that the United States dominates the blueberry market — we grow far more blueberries than any other country — and Washington and Oregon are responsible for the vast majority of them. In 2021, Washington’s farmers produced an astounding 180 million pounds of these plump, juicy fruits, while Oregon pitched in with 150 million pounds. This significant production volume not only satisfies domestic demand but also supplies blueberries to consumers around the world, establishing Washington as a blueberry powerhouse. 

So Washington produces a ton of blueberries (actually, it’s more like 90,000 tons each year, but you know what we mean). What’s that mean for the folks who live in and visit our state? 

U-pick blueberry farms: A family-friendly tradition 

For residents and visitors alike, summertime in Washington means heading to the picturesque U-pick blueberry farms scattered throughout the state. These farms offer a unique and enjoyable experience, allowing families to immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside while harvesting the freshest blueberries directly from the bush. If you’d like to pick blueberries at a local farm, check out this handy tool from the Washington Blueberry Commission. 

The tradition of U-pick farms fosters a sense of community while giving visitors a chance to appreciate the hard work and dedication of local farmers. What’s more, blueberries are just great. It’s hard to choose between eating them fresh, freezing them to enjoy during the winter (just rinse them off and store them in a plastic bag in your freezer), or baking them into tasty treats like muffins or scones. The good news is you don’t have to choose. Why not try all three? 

A blooming business: Growing blueberries in Washington 

Thanks to Washington's diverse geography, blueberries thrive in both western and eastern regions. Western Washington claims 55% of the state's blueberry production, while the remaining 45% of blueberries flourish in the sun-kissed lands of eastern Washington. 

Blueberries require slightly acidic and damp yet well-drained soil to thrive, which makes many parts of Washington an ideal environment for home gardeners to grow their own. If you have access to a few square feet of garden, you can nurture blueberries too. There’s nothing quite like caring for a blueberry bush that responds by providing fresh berries. 

Blueberry season is now!

Whether you choose to pick your own berries at a U-pick farm, enjoy locally grown blueberries from markets, or cultivate them in your backyard, Washington's blueberries promise an unparalleled taste of northwest delight. 

So, as summer rolls on, embrace the blueberry season, relish in their sweet flavor, and take pride in knowing that each berry you enjoy is a product of the state's dedication to agricultural excellence. Whether they're topping your morning cereal or making their way into luscious pies, Washington's blueberries are a symbol of Washington's agriculture and community.

Correction: A previous version of this blog incorrectly stated that the United States grows the majority of blueberries produced in the world. The U.S. in fact produces more blueberries than any other country, but it is not a majority of the global total.