Major Crops Grown in America for 2025

The crops grown in America show a wide variety. This is because of the country's different landscapes. From the rich Midwest plains to the coasts, every region adds to farming. Did you know only 20 crops give 90% of the world's food calories? Depending on just a few crops can be risky. Growing more types of crops helps nature by cutting pests and handling climate changes better. By using diverse farming methods, America can protect food supplies and keep ecosystems healthy.

Northeast Region

Apples and Berries

The Northeast is known for its apple orchards and berry farms. There are over 26,000 apple farms in the U.S., many run by families for generations. These farms are important to the region's economy and culture. States with strong apple production continue to do well in this industry. Berries like blueberries and strawberries grow well in the cool climate and rich soil. These fruits help local markets and bring visitors during harvest time.

The apple industry has problems like trade issues and market access. Leaders need to protect these farms and keep them running. By buying from local farmers, you help save the Northeast’s farming traditions and enjoy fresh, tasty produce.

Dairy and Hay

Dairy farming is the main type of farming in the Northeast. The livestock industry here is worth about $12 billion. Dairy farms use over half of the feed grown in the region. Northeast farms make 18.3 billion kilograms of nutrients and 3.4 billion kilograms of protein each year. This covers 94% of the region’s nutrient needs and 67% of its protein needs.

Hay is very important for feeding livestock. It gives dairy cows the nutrients they need to produce milk, cheese, and other dairy foods. Livestock feed also helps create energy and protein for people through meat, dairy, and eggs. When you eat these foods, you’re enjoying the results of farmers’ hard work.

Specialty Crops

Specialty crops in the Northeast include unique fruits, vegetables, and herbs that grow well in the area. These crops often serve smaller markets and make farming more diverse. Climate change is a challenge, but the Northeast is adapting. Studies show 85% of the region has areas where crops can still grow in future climates (RCP 8.5), while 15% may not.

This ability to adapt keeps specialty crops an important part of the Northeast’s farming. Supporting local farmers helps them stay creative and strong, even with environmental changes.

FJD AS2 Steer-Ready System – Precision Farming for American Row Crops

Designed to integrate seamlessly with factory-ready tractors, the FJD AS2 Steer-Ready System delivers RTK-level accuracy and reliable auto-steering for a wide range of American crops, including corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, alfalfa, and more. Whether you’re working the wide plains of the Midwest or the rolling fields of the South, AS2 enhances efficiency, reduces fatigue, and increases your bottom line.

Key Benefits for U.S. Crop Growers

Plug-and-Play for Steer-Ready Tractors - No additional hydraulic retrofits needed—quick installation for leading brands like John Deere, Case IH, New Holland, and more.

RTK Accuracy for Every Pass - Achieve sub-inch precision when planting, spraying, and harvesting—even in high-speed operations.

Supports Diverse Crop Cycles - From corn and soybeans to cotton and vegetables, AS2 adapts to seasonal fieldwork across America’s farming regions.

Smooth Performance on Tough Terrain - Performs well on flatlands and undulating fields common in North and South American farmland.

From Illinois cornfields to Texas cotton farms, the FJD AS2 keeps American agriculture moving straight ahead.  Explore the FJD AS2 Steer-Ready System.

Midwest Region

Corn and Soybeans

The Midwest is called the Corn Belt for good reason. Corn is the main crop here, with huge harvests every year. In 2021, farmers grew over 15 billion bushels of corn. This makes it one of the most important crops in the U.S. Soybeans are also key to the Midwest’s farming success. These beans are used for soy oil, animal feed, and biofuels. In 2021, farmers produced 51 bushels of soybeans per acre. This shows how efficient the region is at growing these crops.

Corn and soybeans are not just important locally. They are vital to the world’s food supply. The Midwest helps the U.S. export 12.7% of its food and farm products. This trade supports local farmers and boosts the economy. But old transportation systems make trade harder. Fixing these problems is important to keep the Midwest a leader in farming.

Wheat and Barley

Wheat has been a major crop in the Midwest for years. It grows well in the region’s rich soil and mild weather. Wheat is used to make bread, pasta, and other foods. Barley has a different story. Before Prohibition, Ohio grew 350,000 acres of barley for beer. After Prohibition, demand for barley dropped. Farmers switched to growing corn, soybeans, and wheat instead.

Now, barley is becoming popular again because of craft beer. Local breweries need barley, so farmers are planting it again. Winter barley is especially useful. It fits into crop rotations, improves soil, and helps the environment. By supporting these efforts, you help bring back an important crop and enjoy new farming innovations.

Livestock Feed Crops

Feed crops are essential for the Midwest’s livestock farms. Farmers grow alfalfa, corn silage, and soy-based feeds for animals. Grazing cover crops is a smart way to save money. One farmer saved $3,851 a year by using cover crops for grazing.

Cover crops save money and make profits too. It costs $28.18 per acre to plant them. Grazing them earns $45.56 per acre in profit. These benefits make cover crops a great choice for farmers. Using these methods helps livestock farming stay strong and supports the Midwest’s farm economy.

Southern Region

Cotton and Tobacco

The South is known for cotton and tobacco farming. Cotton, called the "king of crops," shaped the South's economy. In the 1900s, too much cotton and pests hurt production. For example, South Carolina's cotton dropped from 37,000 bales in 1920 to 2,700 bales in 1922. This big drop caused many workers to leave, changing the population.

Today, cotton is still a major crop in the South. Modern farming helps keep production steady. In 2020, farmers grew over 14 million bales of cotton. Tobacco also grows well in the South's warm weather and rich soil. It has been an important crop for many years, helping local economies and traditions. Supporting these crops helps keep the South's farming history alive.

Peanuts and Sweet Potatoes

Peanuts and sweet potatoes are key crops in the South. Peanuts grow well in sandy soil and are used for snacks and spreads. They are full of protein and oil, making them very useful. Sweet potatoes are healthy and packed with vitamins and minerals. In 2022, farmers grew 1,543,000 metric tons of sweet potatoes on 309,000 hectares.

The South's weather is perfect for growing sweet potatoes. They grow well in different soils, giving steady harvests each year. Buying local peanuts and sweet potatoes supports farmers and gives you fresh, healthy food. These crops feed people and help the South's economy stay strong.

Rice and Sugarcane

Rice and sugarcane grow well in the South's hot, humid weather. Rice needs special soil with silicon to grow properly. It has been a main food in the South for years. Sugarcane, known for its sweetness, also depends on good soil. Farmers use new methods to grow more of these crops.

These crops are very important to the South's economy. Rice fields and sugarcane farms provide food and jobs for many people. Buying products made from these crops helps farmers and keeps Southern farming traditions alive.

Western Region

Fruits and Vegetables

The West is key for growing fruits and vegetables. California grows over one-third of U.S. vegetables. It also grows two-thirds of the country’s fruits and nuts. The warm days and cool nights in this region are ideal. Crops like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados grow well here. Citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, also thrive in this climate.

Farmers use smart irrigation systems to save water. This is very important because the West often has droughts. Buying from local farmers helps keep these crops growing. You also get fresh and tasty produce.

Nuts

The West is the top region for growing nuts. Farmers grow almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and pecans in large amounts. These nuts are loved in the U.S. and sold worldwide.

• The USDA checks fruit and nut crops to track production.

• This helps farmers plan how to sell and ship their crops.

• The data ensures the nut industry meets market needs.

When you buy nuts from the West, you support a global market. This industry depends on careful planning and new ideas.

Specialty Crops

Specialty crops in the West include unique fruits, veggies, and herbs. These crops are popular at farmers markets and with local food fans. Small farmers benefit from these trends and find new ways to grow.

High tunnels have changed farming in the West. They let farmers grow crops longer and sell fresh food all year. The USDA has funded over 26,000 high tunnels in the U.S. This helps farmers earn more and offer fresh produce even in off-seasons.

By choosing specialty crops from the West, you help sustainable farming. You also enjoy fresh and unique foods.

Plains and Mountain States

Wheat and Barley

The Plains and Mountain States grow lots of wheat and barley. Wheat grows well in the large fields of this region. Farmers use shuttle-loading facilities to sell grain faster. These facilities make selling crops easier and quicker. But warmer weather and odd rainfall hurt wheat and barley growth.

In 2011, Montana and North Dakota saved over 5.5 million acres. This land was part of the Conservation Reserve Program. The program helps protect soil and water but reduces farmland. Big companies now trade U.S. wheat, changing how grain is sold. These changes bring new challenges and chances for farmers.

Livestock Feed Crops

Feed crops are very important for animals in this region. Farmers grow winter wheat, alfalfa, and other crops for livestock. Climate change makes farming harder here. Hotter weather and less rain mean more irrigation is needed. Winter crops grow faster but freeze easier in spring.

Farmers are finding new ways to solve these problems. They use better irrigation and planting methods to grow feed crops. Buying local meat and dairy helps farmers keep their farms running. It also supports their efforts to adapt to climate changes.

Specialty Crops

Specialty crops include fruits, veggies, and herbs grown in this area. These crops make more money per acre than regular crops. But they need more water, which is risky during droughts. Dry weather can cause big losses for farmers growing these crops.

Farmers are trying new ways to save water and protect crops. High tunnels and smart irrigation systems help reduce water use. These tools keep crops healthy and save money. Buying specialty crops from this region supports creative farming and gives you fresh, tasty food.

America grows many different crops because of its varied landscapes. Each area has special crops, like corn in the Midwest and cotton in the South. Soil and weather decide what farmers can grow and how they do it.

Farming is very important to the U.S. It gives us food, jobs, and products to sell to other countries. Learning about these crops helps you value farmers' efforts and why eco-friendly farming matters.

FAQ

What are the most important crops grown in the U.S.?

Corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton are key crops. They are used for food, animal feed, and industries like clothing and biofuels. Different regions grow these crops based on their soil and weather.

How does geography affect crop production in America?

Geography decides which crops grow best in each area. For example:

• The Midwest's rich soil is great for corn and soybeans.

• The South's hot weather suits cotton and peanuts.

• The West grows fruits, vegetables, and nuts well.

Why is crop diversity important for farming?

Growing many crops lowers risks from pests and diseases. It also helps farms handle changing weather. Crop diversity keeps nature balanced and food supplies steady.

How do farmers deal with challenges like droughts or pests?

Farmers use smart tools like better irrigation, crop rotation, and pest-proof seeds. These methods save water and protect crops during hard times.

What can you do to support American farmers?

You can shop for local produce, eat seasonal foods, and visit farmers' markets. This helps farmers earn money and keeps their farms strong. Plus, you get fresher, tastier food!