Growing New York’s Vegetable Industry

New York State’s vegetable industry is a vital part of its agricultural economy, generating over $400 million annually in farm gate value. The state ranks among the top U.S. producers of several key crops, including:

• Cabbage – Over $63 million in value; New York is the second-largest producer in the U.S.
• Sweet corn – Valued at over $41 million annually.
• Onions, tomatoes, pumpkins, cucumbers, squash, peas, and more – All contribute significantly to the state’s diverse vegetable portfolio.

Cornell AgriTech plays a central role in supporting this industry through cutting-edge research, innovation, and outreach. Our mission is to help New York’s vegetable growers produce healthier, more sustainable, and economically viable crops—now and into the future.

Our Research Strengths

Cornell AgriTech’s vegetable research spans the full production pipeline, from seed to harvest. Our interdisciplinary teams work across plant science, entomology, pathology, and soil health to deliver practical, science-based solutions.

Seed Technologies

Our Seed Biology & Technology Program is pioneering new approaches to seed health, vigor, and resilience. Research areas include:

• Seed-borne disease management
• Biological seed treatments to reduce chemical inputs
• Non-destructive diagnostics for rapid quality assessment
• AI-driven modeling for predicting germination and vigor under variable conditions

Soil and Crop Health

Healthy soils are the foundation of productive farms. Our researchers:

• Develop cover cropping systems to improve soil structure and fertility
• Promote best management practices for nutrient cycling and erosion control
• Study soil microbiomes and their role in plant resilience and disease suppression 

Plant Breeding

Cornell AgriTech has a long legacy of breeding vegetable varieties tailored to the Northeast. Current efforts include:

• Broccoli hybrids adapted to warmer, unpredictable climates
• Tomatoes and brassicas bred for disease resistance and flavor

Disease and Pest Management

Our integrated pest and disease management programs help growers reduce losses while minimizing environmental impact:

• Digital disease diagnostics and predictive modeling
• Biological control strategies for insect pests
• Weed ecology research to combat herbicide-resistant species
• Innovation to manage pests and diseases sustainably

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