In recent months, U.S. consumers have faced steady price increases at grocery stores due to supply chain disruptions, new tariffs, and global market volatility. As a result, fresh produce and fruits—essential staples like sweet potatoes and onions—have seen significant price hikes.

But what if you could break free from this cycle and grow your own food, with just the cost of seeds and a little effort? Growing your own fruits and vegetables at home not only helps protect you from rising prices but also ensures healthy eating and reduces dependence on large corporations controlling the food supply. It’s an empowering way to secure access to a variety of foods despite market fluctuations and grocery store mergers. Take control of your food system, stabilize your finances, and grow your own supply right in your backyard!

Here’s a list of important produce items to grow, with details on why they are impacted, where they come from, and when to plant and harvest them according to USDA growing zones.

1. Onions

Why: The U.S. imports a large portion of its onions from Mexico, last year, grocery prices for onions rose by about 28%.

When to Grow: Instead of relying on the international market, grow them in USDA hardiness zones 3–10, sowing in early spring or late summer (for overwintering in mild zones) and harvesting from mid-summer to fall.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Why: Domestic production of sweet potatoes has suffered due to climate change–driven floods and droughts, especially in North Carolina and Louisiana. While tariffs haven't significantly impacted them, weather-related challenges contributed to a modest increase of about 12–15% in sweet potato grocery store prices compared to previous years.
When to Grow: Plant in USDA Zones 8–11, or in cooler zones with a long enough growing season. Sow directly in raised garden beds in late spring and harvest from late summer to early fall.

3. Fresh Strawberries

Why: Heavy rains and floods in California, which produces about 90% of U.S. strawberries, have caused significant supply issues. 

When to Grow: Plant in USDA Zones 4–10. Sow in directly in elevated garden beds early spring and harvest from late spring to early summer.

4. Dragon Fruit

Why: Tropical fruits like dragon fruit are heavily imported from Vietnam, Colombia, and Mexico. New U.S. import tariffs and armed conflicts impacting global shipping have increased costs up to 35% in the last year.
When to Grow: Consider using a tree planter for growing indoors or on a porch in USDA Zones 10–11, or opt for containers indoors in cooler areas. Sow in late spring and harvest from late summer to early fall.

5. Brussels Sprouts

Why: Most commercial sprouts are grown in California and Mexico, and grocery prices for sprouts have increased by approximately 15% in recent years.

When to Grow: Plant Brussels sprouts in USDA Zones 3–9. Sow them in mid to late summer and harvest from fall through early winter.

6. Tomatoes

Why: Tomatoes have become more expensive due to supply chain issues, new tariffs, and rising production costs in Mexico. This year alone, tomato prices have increased by 15–20%.

When to Grow: Tomatoes thrive in USDA Zones 3–10. In cooler zones, start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last expected frost, and once the weather warms, transplant them to raised garden beds for harvest, typically in late summer.

7. Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Parsley, Oregano, Thyme) 

Why: Most fresh herbs are imported from Mexico, Colombia, and Peru, and disruptions in global shipping have caused prices to increase by 10–20% in recent years.

When to Grow: Plant herbs in USDA Zones 4–11, depending on the herb. Keep in mind that some herbs may thrive better in raised garden beds, while others are best suited for individual containers. Sow in spring and summer, and harvest with continuous clipping after 4–8 weeks.

8. Garlic 

Why: The U.S. imports most of its garlic from China, and recent tariffs, shipping delays, and labor shortages have driven prices up by 20–30%. 

When to Grow: Plant garlic in USDA Zones 3–8 by sowing cloves in fall (October–November). Harvest in mid-summer the following year. Garlic can also be grown indoors in planters with adequate light and moisture.

9. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce, Kale, Swiss Chard) 

Why: During market disruptions, lettuce prices rose up to 30% when droughts and storms affected fields in California and Arizona.

When to Grow: Plant leafy greens in USDA Zones 2–11. Sow in early spring and/or late summer, and harvest in 30–60 days, depending on the variety.

10. Peppers (Bell Peppers and Hot Peppers)

Why: Pepper prices jumped about 15% post-tariffs and continue to stay high due to climate pressures and labor shortages.

When to Grow: Peppers can be planted in USDA Zones 5–11. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last frost, and transplant them outdoors once the soil has warmed sufficiently. Harvest the peppers in 60–90 days, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

11. Cucumbers 

Why: Fresh cucumbers are often imported from Mexico and Canada during the offseason. Supply chain disruptions and fuel price spikes caused cucumber prices to rise 10–15% in the last couple of years.

When to Grow: Cucumbers thrive in USDA Zones 4–12. Sow the seeds after the last frost, and expect to harvest within 50–70 days, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

Final Thoughts

With rising prices and supply chain disruptions affecting everything from groceries to produce, taking control of your food supply is more important than ever. By growing your own fruits and vegetables at home, you can protect yourself from price hikes, improve food security, and enjoy fresh, healthy food!