Tennessee’s rolling hills and moderate temperatures support several crops that consistently outperform others at market. If you are looking for the best cash crops to grow in tennessee, you need to focus on plants that thrive in the state’s unique climate and soil conditions. This guide breaks down the top options for both new and experienced farmers.
Tennessee offers a long growing season, plenty of rainfall, and diverse geography. From the Mississippi Delta to the Appalachian foothills, different regions favor different crops. But some stand out as reliable money-makers across the state.
Best Cash Crops To Grow In Tennessee
This section covers the most profitable and practical crops for Tennessee farmers. Each crop is chosen based on market demand, climate suitability, and potential return on investment.
1. Soybeans
Soybeans are the undisputed king of Tennessee row crops. They cover more acreage than any other crop in the state. The climate is perfect for them, with warm summers and adequate rain.
You can plant soybeans from May through June. Harvest usually happens in October. The crop requires minimal irrigation in most years, which keeps costs down.
- High demand from livestock feed and biofuel markets
- Relatively low input costs compared to corn
- Good rotation partner with corn and cotton
- Multiple variety options for different soil types
Soybeans also benefit from Tennessee’s long daylight hours in summer. This boosts yields significantly. Many farmers report 50 to 70 bushels per acre with proper management.
2. Corn
Corn is another top contender for Tennessee growers. The state’s heat and humidity create ideal conditions for field corn. Most of it goes to animal feed or ethanol production.
You need to plant corn early, usually by mid-April. Late planting can reduce yields due to summer heat stress. Corn requires more fertilizer than soybeans, but the payoff can be higher.
- Choose hybrid varieties suited for Tennessee’s climate
- Test soil pH and adjust to 6.0-6.5
- Apply nitrogen in split applications for best results
- Monitor for pests like corn earworm and armyworm
Corn prices fluctuate, but it remains a stable cash crop. With good management, you can expect 150 to 200 bushels per acre. Some top farmers exceed 250 bushels.
3. Cotton
Cotton is a historic crop in Tennessee, especially in the western part of the state. The warm climate and long growing season suit it well. Cotton requires a frost-free period of at least 180 days.
You should plant cotton in late April or early May. Harvest happens in September and October. The crop needs careful pest management, particularly for boll weevils and aphids.
- High value per acre compared to grains
- Strong global demand for fiber
- Good option for well-drained soils
- Requires specialized harvesting equipment
Cotton yields in Tennessee average around 800 to 1,000 pounds per acre. Prices vary, but cotton often provides a solid profit margin when managed well.
4. Tobacco
Tobacco remains a profitable cash crop in Tennessee, though acreage has declined. The state is known for burley tobacco, which grows well in the eastern and central regions.
Tobacco is labor-intensive but offers high returns per acre. You need to start plants in greenhouses, then transplant them to fields in spring. Harvest involves multiple steps, including topping, suckering, and curing.
- Secure a tobacco quota or contract before planting
- Prepare seedbeds with proper soil sterilization
- Transplant after the last frost, usually in May
- Apply fertilizer based on soil tests
- Monitor for blue mold and aphids regularly
Burley tobacco can yield 2,000 to 3,000 pounds per acre. Prices are regulated by contracts, but the crop remains a solid choice for small to medium farms.
5. Hay And Forage
Hay is a huge market in Tennessee, driven by the state’s large livestock industry. You can grow alfalfa, timothy, or fescue for hay production. The demand is steady year-round.
Hay requires less capital than row crops. You need a tractor, mower, and baler. The crop can be harvested multiple times per season, which spreads out income.
- Alfalfa offers high protein content for dairy cattle
- Fescue is tough and grows well on poor soils
- Timothy is popular for horse owners
- Orchard grass mixes well with legumes
Hay prices vary by quality. Premium alfalfa hay can sell for $200 to $300 per ton. Even average grass hay fetches $100 to $150 per ton.
6. Wheat
Winter wheat is a common cash crop in Tennessee. You plant it in the fall, and it grows through winter and spring. Harvest happens in June or July.
Wheat works well in rotation with soybeans or corn. It provides ground cover during winter, reducing erosion. The straw can also be sold for bedding or mulch.
- Plant wheat in October or early November
- Apply nitrogen in late winter for spring growth
- Control weeds with herbicides in early spring
- Harvest when grain moisture drops below 14%
Wheat yields in Tennessee average 60 to 80 bushels per acre. Prices are moderate, but the crop’s low input costs make it profitable.
7. Sorghum
Sorghum is gaining popularity in Tennessee as a drought-tolerant alternative to corn. It requires less water and fertilizer, making it a low-risk option.
You can grow grain sorghum for animal feed or forage sorghum for silage. The crop matures in 90 to 120 days, depending on variety.
- Excellent heat and drought tolerance
- Good for sandy or low-fertility soils
- Can be double-cropped after wheat
- Resistant to many pests that affect corn
Sorghum yields range from 80 to 120 bushels per acre. Prices are similar to corn but with lower production costs.
8. Hemp
Hemp is a newer cash crop in Tennessee, legalized for industrial production. It can be grown for fiber, grain, or CBD extraction. The market is still developing, but opportunities exist.
Hemp requires careful variety selection. Fiber varieties grow tall and dense. Grain varieties produce seeds for food or oil. CBD varieties need special handling for cannabinoid content.
- Obtain a license from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture
- Choose a variety suited to your end market
- Plant in well-drained soil after the last frost
- Monitor THC levels to stay below the legal limit
Hemp yields vary widely. Fiber can produce 5 to 10 tons per acre. Grain yields are 1,000 to 2,000 pounds per acre. CBD hemp can be very profitable but requires more management.
9. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a high-value vegetable crop in Tennessee. The state’s warm summers and fertile soil produce excellent fruit. You can sell them fresh at farmers markets or to wholesalers.
Tomatoes require staking or trellising for best results. They need consistent watering and fertilization. Disease management is critical, especially for blight and wilt.
- Choose determinate varieties for machine harvest
- Use indeterminate varieties for extended harvest
- Plant after the last frost in well-drained soil
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds
Tomato yields can reach 20 to 30 tons per acre. Prices vary by season, but fresh market tomatoes often sell for $1 to $2 per pound.
10. Pumpkins
Pumpkins are a fun and profitable cash crop for Tennessee farmers. They grow well in the state’s climate and have a strong seasonal market. You can sell them directly to consumers or to retailers.
Pumpkins need full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in late May or early June. Harvest happens in September and October, just in time for fall sales.
- Prepare soil with compost or aged manure
- Plant seeds 1 inch deep in hills
- Space hills 4 to 6 feet apart
- Control weeds with shallow cultivation
- Harvest when the rind is hard and stem is dry
Pumpkin yields average 10 to 20 tons per acre. Prices range from $0.10 to $0.50 per pound, depending on size and variety. Specialty pumpkins can fetch higher prices.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Cash Crops
Not every crop works for every farm. You need to evaluate your specific conditions before deciding. Here are key factors to think about.
Soil Type And Quality
Tennessee has diverse soils, from sandy loams to heavy clays. Soybeans and corn do well in loamy soils. Cotton prefers well-drained sandy loams. Tobacco thrives in silt loams.
Test your soil before planting. Adjust pH and nutrient levels as needed. Most crops prefer a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
Climate And Growing Season
Tennessee’s climate varies by region. West Tennessee is warmer and more humid. East Tennessee has cooler temperatures and higher elevation. Choose crops that match your local conditions.
The average growing season ranges from 180 to 220 days. This is long enough for most cash crops, but some require careful timing.
Market Access
Consider where you will sell your crop. Row crops like soybeans and corn have established markets. Specialty crops like tomatoes or pumpkins need local buyers or direct sales.
Research prices and demand before planting. Talk to local grain elevators, processors, or farmers market managers.
Equipment And Labor
Some crops require specialized equipment. Cotton needs a picker or stripper. Tobacco needs transplanters and curing barns. Hay requires mowers, rakes, and balers.
Labor availability is also important. Tobacco and vegetables are labor-intensive. Row crops are more mechanized.
Tips For Maximizing Profit
Growing a cash crop is only half the battle. You also need to manage your farm for maximum profit. Here are practical tips.
- Rotate crops to reduce pest pressure and improve soil health
- Use cover crops to prevent erosion and add organic matter
- Apply fertilizers based on soil tests to avoid waste
- Monitor weather forecasts to time planting and harvest
- Join a cooperative to get better prices on inputs and outputs
Diversify your crop portfolio. Don’t rely on a single crop. Plant multiple crops to spread risk and capture different markets.
Keep detailed records of inputs, yields, and prices. This helps you identify what works best on your farm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most profitable cash crop in Tennessee?
Tobacco and cotton often provide the highest profit per acre. However, soybeans and corn are more stable and less labor-intensive. The best choice depends on your farm’s resources and market access.
Can you grow hemp in Tennessee for profit?
Yes, hemp is legal in Tennessee and can be profitable. Fiber and grain markets are growing. CBD hemp requires careful management but can yield high returns. Always check current regulations and obtain a license.
What vegetables grow best as cash crops in Tennessee?
Tomatoes, pumpkins, and sweet corn are top vegetable cash crops. They have strong local demand and can be sold fresh. Green beans and peppers also do well in Tennessee’s climate.
How much land do you need for a cash crop farm in Tennessee?
You can start with as little as 5 to 10 acres for specialty crops. Row crops like soybeans and corn typically require 50 acres or more to be profitable. Small farms can focus on high-value crops like tobacco or vegetables.
What is the best cash crop for beginners in Tennessee?
Soybeans are a good choice for beginners. They are easy to grow, require minimal equipment, and have a stable market. Hay is also beginner-friendly if you have livestock or a local buyer.
Tennessee offers many opportunities for cash crop farming. The key is to match your crop choice to your land, climate, and market. Start small, learn from experience, and expand gradually. With the right approach, you can build a profitable farming operation in the Volunteer State.
Remember to check local extension offices for specific advice. They offer soil testing, variety recommendations, and pest management tips. Use these resources to make informed decisions and maximize your success.