"Our Top 5" Series: Cash Crops

Welcome to Our Top 5! For our opening week, as planting season is right around the corner, we will be starting our conversation to cash crops, and which ones we believe are the best of the best. Our location in southwestern Ontario may have influenced our choices a little bit, as well as our love for french fries (spoiler), but nonetheless, enjoy the list and feel free to respond with your own opinions regarding the rankings of cash crops.

5. Barley

This is a unique crop that's grown for both food and feed purposes, and it's also used in the production of malt for beer and whisky. That's a good advantage for farmers, as it gives them multiple sources of revenue from one crop. Additionally, barley is a hardy crop that can be grown in a variety of soil types and climates. Canada’s malt barley is top quality, making Canada the second largest exporter of malt world-wide. However, it does have a lower yield compared to other crops, so keep that in mind when making your own rankings.

4. Wheat

A classic food crop that's been a staple for centuries, this one is widely used in flour production, which is an essential ingredient in many food products, like bread, pasta, and baked goods. Wheat is also a versatile crop that can be grown in a variety of soil types and climates. However, keep an eye on the market price, as the price of wheat can be quite erratic at times.

3. Corn

This one's a top pick for many farmers in Ontario, and for good reason. Corn has a high yield, making it an attractive option for farmers looking to maximize their profits. And, it's a versatile crop, as it can be used for food, feed, and even fuel. Because of that, in 2021, corn made up about 60% of Canada's total for grain area. The advancements in technology have made growing corn a lot easier too, with improved seeds and farming techniques that increase yields and reduce the risk of crop failures.

2. Potatoes

One word: Versatility. All you need to know about the product to convince you it is in the right spot in the rankings. Another staple food that's widely used in the processing industry, making them a good choice for farmers looking to capitalize on steady demand. Growing potatoes can be a bit more challenging than some other crops, as they require specific growing conditions and can be vulnerable to disease, but with the right care and attention, they can be a very profitable and enjoyable option for farmers.

1. Soybeans

The demand alone for soybeans pretty much put it at the top spot. In 2021, there were 2.8 million acres of soybeans, out of the 11.8 million acres available in the province (23.7%!). This valuable crop has extremely high oil and protein content, and it's widely used in food and animal feed products. Growing soybeans can be a bit trickier than other crops, as they require careful soil management and pest control, but with the right attention and care, they can be a profitable option for farmers. Not to mention the resilience and low maintenance these crops require, which are both massive bonus' to the farmer tending to the plant.

So, there you have it! These are the top 5 cash crops in Ontario, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. As a farmer, it's important to take into account your individual circumstances, such as location, soil quality, and market prices, when deciding which crops will work best for you. So please feel free to create your own personal rankings and have a friendly debate with others on what should be the top 5 cash crops. 

What should our next ranking list be?