VEGETABLE INDUSTRY PROFILE

Jason Johnson, Extension Economist, Texas Agricultural Extension Service

Vegetables formed the first great agricultural bonanza when South Texas was originally cleared by farmers coming from the Midwest. They were drawn to the sub-tropical climate where a 315 to 349 day growing season provided the opportunity for double cropping of some crops. That tradition continues today as Valley vegetable production normally covers approximately 65,000 acres. Annual Rio Grande Valley vegetable production typically exceeds $170 million in returns to producers, contributes over $250 million to the Rio Grande Valley economy, and provides over 8000 full-time equivalent jobs.

In 1994 Texas ranked fourth in national vegetable production, and the Valley leads the state in producing many of these crops. Often these Valley products capture a special place in the market because they are the first of the season available in the United States. The major vegetable and melon crops grown in the Rio Grande Valley include: onions, cabbage, carrots, peppers, cucumbers, cantaloupes, watermelons and honeydew melons. However, other vegetable crops are grown on a smaller scale and provide the diversity often associated with agriculture in this agricultural oasis. A profile of estimated acreages, economic values, and full-time equivalent jobs provided by selected Rio Grande Valley vegetable crops is provided below:

Return to South Texas Vegetable Web