Prince Edward Island’s corn season is making up for a slow start due to a chilly spring, coinciding with the arrival of less expensive corn from Quebec in supermarkets. Matthew Compton, the owner of Compton’s Farm Market in Summerside, mentioned that the cold weather in May and June delayed the sweet corn harvest, but he maintained his usual planting quantities. He highlighted the importance of warm soil and temperatures for corn growth, opting to use biodegradable plastic to create a greenhouse effect and accelerate germination.
Compton noted that despite the delayed start, the quality and flavor of the corn are exceptional thanks to recent rain and heat. However, he admitted that his primary sweet corn crop is slightly behind schedule, emphasizing the significance of midsummer demand when tourists flock to the island and families purchase corn for various outdoor activities.
On the other side of the island, Mark Verleun of Keddy’s Corn in Montague echoed similar sentiments about the cold spring but expressed optimism as the weather improved in early July. He plans to open for the season shortly and aims to have corn available until October 1, contingent on fall frost conditions. Verleun remarked on the potential impact of Quebec’s surplus corn on local prices, as an excess in that province could lower prices for consumers in the Maritimes.
Both farmers are monitoring the situation closely, with Compton acknowledging the competitive pressure from Quebec corn affecting local pricing. Despite the market dynamics, Compton and Verleun have maintained stable prices for their corn to remain competitive and not alienate customers. They both emphasized the value of supporting local farmers and the positive impact on the regional economy.
