New Jersey is a small state with one of the nation’s highest population densities. It has major social, economic, and political force within its own boundaries and is woven into the fabric of the Northeast by an extensive transportation system that funnels goods and people to New York City and other points north and Philadelphia and other points south.
The Garden State
New Jersey has been called the Garden State since 1876, and is well known for its agricultural production. Its farmers produce such crops as blueberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, cranberries, apples, and nursery stock. The State’s hay, soybeans and cotton are also important exports. New Jersey is home to 9,071 farms covering 715,057 acres. In addition to being a leader in agricultural production, the State promotes its outstanding produce through the “Jersey Fresh” campaign.
The State Flower – the Violet
The violet was designated the State flower in 1913. Although it is a common flower in many places, the New Jersey violet stands out with its brightly colored petals and deep blue eye. The violet grows in fields, lawns and gardens throughout the State. It is hardy enough to grow in the cold winter temperatures of New Jersey, and blooms most abundantly during spring.
Despite the high density of population, New Jersey is a very rural State, with many forests, swamps and pine forests. The State’s wildlife includes black bears, bobcats, red foxes and raccoons. It is home to birds including red-bellied woodpeckers, chickadees, American goldfinches and northern cardinals. It is also home to reptiles such as spotted turtles and five-lined skinks, and amphibians such as the New Jersey chorus frog and marbled salamander.
State Tree – the Red Oak
The red oak is New Jersey’s State tree, and was chosen in 1950. This hardwood tree is distinctive for its large, pointed leaves with prickly tips. It is a good choice for planting in poor soils, and its wood is used in making furniture. It is a good shade tree and adds beauty to the State’s landscape.
State Animal – the Horse
The state’s horse was made the official State animal in 1977. Representing strength and power, the horse has been an integral part of the State’s history. It was also an important tool in the development of farming, and its presence on the State seal symbolizes our continuing reliance on horses to help make New Jersey a leading agricultural state.
The State’s agriculture is aided by a sophisticated transportation system. It is connected by railroads, highways and waterways. Approximately one-third of the state is farmland, and it leads the country in the production of cranberries, blueberries and vegetables. The state is the third largest producer of tomatoes and a top producer of corn, apples, and bell peppers. It is one of the leaders in the production of nursery stock and soybeans. New Jersey is also a leader in pharmaceuticals and electronics manufacturing. Its state capital, Trenton, is located in the northern part of the State.