New Jersey is known as the Garden State because of its rich agricultural history. The state has a long history of farming, dating back to the 17th century when Dutch settlers established farms along the Hudson River. New Jersey's fertile soil and mild climate made it ideal for growing a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. Today, New Jersey is still a major producer of agricultural products, including blueberries, cranberries, peaches, and tomatoes. In fact, New Jersey produces more blueberries than any other state in the United States.