North Carolina’s agricultural heritage extends far beyond tobacco into modern, high-demand cash crops. If you are looking for the best cash crops to grow in north carolina, you have plenty of profitable options that suit the state’s diverse climate and soil types.
This guide covers the most lucrative crops for small and large farms alike. You will learn what grows well, how much you can earn, and what challenges to expect.
Best Cash Crops To Grow In North Carolina
North Carolina has three main growing regions: the coastal plain, the piedmont, and the mountains. Each area supports different crops. The state’s long growing season and mild winters make it ideal for many high-value plants.
Here are the top cash crops ranked by profitability and demand.
Soybeans
Soybeans are the largest cash crop in North Carolina by acreage. Farmers plant over 1.5 million acres each year. The crop thrives in the warm, humid climate of the coastal plain.
Why soybeans work for you:
- Low input costs compared to corn
- Strong export demand
- Can be double-cropped after wheat
- Good rotation crop for soil health
Average yield is around 40 to 50 bushels per acre. At current prices near $12 per bushel, you can expect gross returns of $480 to $600 per acre. Net profit varies but often ranges from $100 to $200 per acre after expenses.
Corn
Corn is another top crop in the state, with over 900,000 acres planted annually. It requires more fertilizer and water than soybeans, but yields are higher.
Key points for corn growers:
- Plant in early April for best results
- Use hybrid varieties suited to your region
- Irrigation helps during dry summers
- Storage is important for price timing
Average yields reach 150 to 180 bushels per acre. At $5 per bushel, gross revenue is $750 to $900 per acre. Production costs are higher, so net profit typically falls between $100 and $250 per acre.
Tobacco
Tobacco remains a traditional cash crop in North Carolina, though acreage has declined. The state still leads the nation in tobacco production. It is a high-value crop but requires intensive labor and strict regulations.
What to know about tobacco:
- Needs specialized equipment for planting and harvesting
- Subject to federal quota and marketing rules
- High labor costs, often $2,000 per acre
- Returns can exceed $4,000 per acre
Only grow tobacco if you have experience or access to contract buyers. The learning curve is steep, but profits can be substantial.
Cotton
Cotton is making a comeback in North Carolina, especially in the eastern counties. It thrives in sandy loam soils and hot summers.
Benefits of cotton:
- Strong global demand for fiber
- Can be grown with less nitrogen than corn
- Good rotation with peanuts and soybeans
- Stable prices through government programs
Yields average 800 to 1,000 pounds of lint per acre. At $0.70 per pound, gross revenue is $560 to $700 per acre. Net profit is modest, around $100 to $150 per acre.
Peanuts
Peanuts are a high-value legume that grows well in the sandy soils of the coastal plain. North Carolina ranks fourth in U.S. peanut production.
Why peanuts are profitable:
- High market price, often $0.25 to $0.30 per pound
- Yields of 3,000 to 4,000 pounds per acre
- Good rotation crop that fixes nitrogen
- Strong demand for peanut butter and snacks
Gross revenue can reach $900 to $1,200 per acre. Production costs are moderate, so net profit often exceeds $300 per acre.
Sweet Potatoes
North Carolina is the top sweet potato producer in the United States. The sandy loam soils and long growing season create ideal conditions.
Sweet potato farming tips:
- Plant slips in May after frost danger passes
- Harvest in September to October
- Require careful curing and storage
- High labor costs for hand harvesting
Yields average 400 to 600 bushels per acre. At $20 per bushel, gross revenue is $8,000 to $12,000 per acre. Net profit can exceed $2,000 per acre, making it one of the most profitable crops.
Christmas Trees
In the mountain counties, Christmas trees are a major cash crop. Fraser fir is the most popular species. It takes 7 to 10 years to grow a marketable tree.
What you need to know:
- Requires high elevation, above 3,000 feet
- Annual care includes shearing and pest control
- Wholesale prices range from $20 to $40 per tree
- Retail sales can double that
An acre can hold 1,000 to 1,500 trees. Even with a 10-year cycle, annualized returns are attractive. Many growers also offer choose-and-cut operations for extra income.
Small Fruits And Vegetables
High tunnels and direct marketing make small fruits profitable. Strawberries, blueberries, and tomatoes are popular choices.
Strawberries:
- Plant in fall for spring harvest
- Yields of 10,000 to 15,000 pounds per acre
- Retail prices of $3 to $5 per pound
- U-pick operations reduce labor costs
Blueberries:
- Thrive in acidic soils of the coastal plain
- Mature bushes yield 5,000 to 8,000 pounds per acre
- Wholesale prices of $2 to $4 per pound
- Long harvest season from June to August
Tomatoes:
- High demand for fresh market
- Staked or trellised for better quality
- Yields of 20 to 30 tons per acre
- Prices vary by season and market
Industrial Hemp
Hemp is a newer crop with potential. It can be grown for fiber, grain, or CBD. Regulations are evolving, so check current laws.
Hemp considerations:
- Requires a license from the state
- CBD production has high value but high risk
- Fiber and grain markets are developing
- Good rotation crop for soil health
CBD hemp can gross $5,000 to $20,000 per acre, but prices have dropped. Fiber hemp yields 5 to 10 tons per acre at $200 to $400 per ton.
Factors To Consider Before Choosing A Crop
Your specific location, soil type, and resources matter. Here are key factors to evaluate.
Soil And Climate
Test your soil before planting. Most crops prefer well-drained loam. Sandy soils suit peanuts and sweet potatoes. Clay soils work for soybeans and corn.
Climate varies across the state. The coastal plain has hot summers and mild winters. The piedmont is cooler. The mountains have shorter growing seasons.
Market Access
Consider how you will sell your crop. Options include:
- Local farmers markets
- Wholesale buyers and cooperatives
- Direct to restaurants and grocery stores
- Online sales and CSAs
Proximity to urban areas like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro helps. These cities have strong demand for fresh produce.
Labor And Equipment
Some crops require more labor than others. Tobacco and sweet potatoes need many hands. Soybeans and corn are more mechanized.
Evaluate your equipment needs. You may need to invest in planters, harvesters, and irrigation. Leasing can reduce upfront costs.
Risk Management
Farming has risks from weather, pests, and price swings. Consider these strategies:
- Crop insurance for major commodities
- Diversify with multiple crops
- Use contracts with buyers
- Build storage for price timing
Step-By-Step Guide To Starting A Cash Crop Farm
Follow these steps to get started.
- Research your local market and identify demand
- Test your soil and amend as needed
- Choose crops that match your climate and resources
- Create a business plan with budget and cash flow
- Secure financing through loans or grants
- Purchase or lease equipment
- Plant according to recommended dates
- Monitor for pests and diseases
- Harvest at peak quality
- Market and sell your crop
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Most Profitable Cash Crop In North Carolina?
Sweet potatoes often top the list with net profits exceeding $2,000 per acre. Tobacco and Christmas trees also offer high returns per acre.
Can I Grow Cash Crops On A Small Farm In North Carolina?
Yes. Small farms do well with high-value crops like strawberries, tomatoes, and cut flowers. Direct marketing to local buyers increases profit margins.
What Cash Crops Grow Best In The Mountains Of North Carolina?
Christmas trees are the top choice. Fraser fir thrives at high elevations. Other options include apples, grapes, and small grains like oats.
How Do I Find Buyers For My Cash Crops In North Carolina?
Start with local farmers markets and food hubs. Contact cooperative extension offices for buyer lists. Join grower associations for networking opportunities.
What Is The Easiest Cash Crop To Grow For Beginners?
Soybeans are relatively low-maintenance and have good support systems. They require less labor and equipment than many other crops.
Final Thoughts On Cash Crops In North Carolina
Choosing the best cash crops to grow in north carolina depends on your goals, land, and resources. The state offers many profitable options from traditional soybeans to high-value sweet potatoes.
Start small, test your market, and expand gradually. Use resources from North Carolina State University Extension for detailed guides on each crop. With careful planning, you can build a successful farming operation.
Remember to check local regulations for any crop you consider. Some crops like hemp require licenses. Others like tobacco have specific rules. Stay informed and adapt as markets change.
Your success as a farmer comes from matching the right crop to your land and market. North Carolina’s diverse agriculture gives you many paths to profitability. Choose wisely and work smart.