If you’re looking for new crops to turn a profit, look no further!
As trends in the culinary, decorative and natural health industries change so should the agriculture industry that feeds them.
In this article, we’ll look at 10 trendy crops to grow to match the market demand.
Adaptogens
As interest in herbal medicinal practices continues to rise, adaptogens have become all the rage among health and wellness Instagram influencers.
Adaptogens, supplements made from plants such as herbs and roots, are thought to help the body adapt to stress. Start growing ashwagandha, a balancing Indian herb, and Asian ginseng, a calming root. Both crops can be grown, harvested, and dried to be used in teas or added to meals.
Microgreens
Microgreens are more flavorful and more nutritional versions of all our favorite vegetables, and they can be used in sauces, salads, smoothies, and even cocktails.
These crops are fast-growing and require very little space and maintenance, making it easy to keep up with trends and turn a profit. Plant the seeds of popular greens such as arugula or spinach and harvest once the sprouts have leaves, in as little as two weeks.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower—it’s everywhere. The vitamin C-rich vegetable has seen a recent rebrand from the boring side dish your mother made you eat to a flavorful, versatile alternative to carbs.
The trend is so pervasive for many reasons. For one, it can be used as a gluten-free and vegan substitute for things like pizza crust and buffalo wings.
Cauliflower crops can take two to three months to be ready for harvest and thrive in cool weather.
Bamboo
Demand for bamboo increases as the search for sustainable alternatives for wood and plastic continues. In addition to being durable, bamboo is the fastest growing plant on the planet and has comparatively few negative effects on the environment; for example, it prevents soil erosion and doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizer.
Sell crops of bamboo for landscaping, decorative pieces, fibers for clothes and bedding, fences, pipes, and a lot more. Grow it in pots or in the ground but be sure to keep the soil moist.
Chili Peppers
Demand for spicy foods is on the rise, making chili pepper crops a worthwhile investment. Jalapenos, serranos and habaneros are three of the most popular peppers and are often used in Hispanic dishes.
Grow the peppers in warm weather with deep watering every few days. Experiment with hot sauce recipes or sell them as is at a local farmers’ market.
Mushrooms
The mushroom market is predicted to double by 2025 as the interest in fungi for medicinal usage and plant-based diets increases.
Species of mushrooms like oyster and shiitake have potential for high profits with little maintenance and space.
Grow gourmet mushrooms indoors for environmental control and sell them quickly at nearby markets as some species don’t travel well.
Catnip
It’s common knowledge that catnip makes cats kind of crazy.
But did you know catnip, also known as catmint, is a perennial member of the mint family?
Catnip is not only popular amongst kitties, but also as a colorful addition to landscaped lawns. It requires little maintenance as neither fertilizer nor water more than rain is necessary.
Crops of the herb can be cut and dried to be sold for cat or human ingestion and potted plants can be sold for landscape design.
Bold, Colorful Flowers
For a multifunctional and beautiful crop, start growing bold, colorful flowers such as peonies and zinnias.
Vibrant, functional, and fragrant are in this year so specializing in flowers that come in a wide range of colors is the way to go.
Some flower species like peonies and zinnias don’t need much water, making them particularly tolerant of drought. Profit off your crops by selling seeds, potted plants, or cut stems for bouquets.
Shiso
As Japanese foods such as ramen and sushi continue to trend, so does Japanese herb shiso.
Shiso, like catnip, is in the mint family and its known mostly as a refreshing garnish.
While the herb is popularly used as a bed for wasabi or to add flavor in maki rolls in America, it’s gaining popularity for use in teas and spices. For something adaptable, grow Shiso.
Like basil, it’s not picky about its soil, water, or space.
Landscape Plants
Growing sustainable plants for landscaping such as ground covers and ornamental grass can be a lucrative business.
Ground covers and ornamental grasses are often highly tolerant of drought and require little maintenance as wild and unkept is their forte. Both types of crop are used mostly to add some color to lawns and fill space.
Popular ground covers include herbs thyme and bugleweed. Fountain grass is an easy, durable, and non-invasive choice of ornamental grass.
Now, you know what new crops to start planting! If you’d like to learn how you can start your own plant nursery, check out our Pure Greens Container farms.
