FRANKFORD TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Sussex County) – A Sussex County farm says it has lost the vast majority of its apple crop this season after a sudden shift in weather brought freezing temperatures during peak bloom.
Hillcrest Orchard & Dairy, home of Jersey Girl Cheese in Frankford Township, said approximately 90% of its apple crop was lost after unseasonably warm temperatures in the 80s were followed by two nights of bitter frost.
“As many of you know, Hillcrest Farm is the home to Jersey Girl Cheese. Not only a dairy farm, Hillcrest is also an apple orchard with over 10 varieties of apples,” the farm said in a statement. “Due to the dramatic change in the weather last week, with temperatures in the 80s, where our trees were in full bloom, then two nights of bitter frost, we are sad to report that we have lost our fruit for this season.”
The farm said there will be no U-pick apple season this year and only a possibility of limited cider production, depending on remaining yields.
“We are confident in saying, approximately 90% of the apples are gone. So unfortunately, there will be no U-pick season. We are hoping for enough to possibly press for cider, but in small quantities. Time will tell,” the statement said.
Despite the loss, the farm plans to continue fall activities, including hayrides and pumpkin offerings, and remains open for other products such as cheese, meats, eggs and baked goods.
Farm officials also encouraged the public to support local agriculture, noting that other farms in the region experienced similar losses.
“Apple season is a major factor for our farm’s prosperity, and with that gone this year, we can use all the support of our community,” the farm said.
The farm said it will continue to welcome visitors and remains committed to serving the community despite the challenges posed by weather conditions.
