By Jamie Martin
Specialty crop growers are facing increasing financial pressure in 2025 as production costs rise faster than farm-gate prices. These crops, which include fruits, vegetables, nuts, and berries, play a major role in the U.S. food supply and represent more than one-third of total crop sales.
Across the country, growers report higher labor, fertilizer, fuel, water, packaging, and compliance costs. University studies covering almonds, apples, blueberries, lettuce, potatoes, and strawberries show that many farmers are now producing crops at a loss. These six crops alone account for about one-quarter of specialty crop receipts, and the financial difficulties extend well beyond them.
Trade uncertainty has also added pressure. Export markets have become less stable due to currency changes, tariffs, and global competition. At the same time, imports produced under lower regulatory costs have increased competition in the U.S. market. Weather volatility, plant diseases, and pest pressure further increase risk and reduce marketable yields.
Federal assistance has not kept pace with the sector’s needs. Specialty crops are not eligible for the $11 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance Program. Although the U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced an additional $1 billion in funding for other crops, details on access remain limited and the funding amount is far below the estimated losses.
Cost studies show that almond growers face high orchard replacement and water costs, apple growers struggle with storage and replanting expenses, and lettuce growers are impacted by rising food safety compliance charges. Strawberry producers deal with high labor and packaging costs, while blueberry and potato growers face weak market prices that often fall below break-even levels.
These challenges are forcing many growers to reduce investment, delay replanting, and limit hiring. Without improvements to safety-net programs, cost transparency, and trade support, specialty crop production may continue to decline. Stronger and more inclusive risk-management policies are needed to protect the stability of U.S. food supplies and support long-term farm sustainability.
Categories: National