The Most Wonderful Time of the Year: Crop Tours

As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, farmers across the country eagerly anticipate one of the most exciting times of the year: crop tour season. These tours, led by agronomists, researchers, and other agricultural experts, take farmers through fields of corn, soybeans, and other crops, offering insights into everything from plant health to yield potential. For many farmers, crop tours are an essential part of their growing season, providing valuable information that can help them make crucial decisions about everything from planting schedules to harvest methods. So, whether you’re a farmer, a student of agriculture, or simply curious about how our food is grown, come along as we explore the wonderful world of crop tours.

Illinois is home to specialty crops

Illinois is known for being the heart of the Corn Belt, but it’s also home to a variety of specialty crops. During crop tours, visitors can see firsthand the production of these unique crops, such as horseradish, pumpkins, sweet corn, and soybeans. In fact, Illinois is one of the largest producers of horseradish in the world, and visitors can take a tour of a horseradish farm to learn about the growing process and the history of this spicy root vegetable. The state is also home to a thriving pumpkin industry, with pumpkin patches and farms throughout the state offering tours and activities for families during the fall season. Soybeans are another major crop in Illinois, and visitors can learn about the growing process and the many uses of this versatile legume, from animal feed to tofu production. Overall, Illinois crop tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the diverse agriculture industry in the state.

Diverse climate and soil

Illinois has a varied climate, ranging from cold winters to hot summers, and its soil types are also diverse. This diversity creates ideal growing conditions for a wide range of crops.

Rich agricultural history

With a long history of agriculture, dating back to the early 1800s, over time, farmers in Illinois have developed expertise in growing a wide variety of crops and have perfected their techniques.

Proximity to major markets

It is located in the heart of the Midwest, with easy access to major markets like Chicago. This makes it an ideal location for growing crops that are in high demand, such as specialty produce and fruits.

Agricultural research and innovation

The state is home to several universities and research institutions that focus on agricultural research and innovation. This research has helped farmers to develop new crop varieties, improve yields, and reduce the impact of pests and diseases.

Supportive policies and programs

 The state of Illinois has several programs and policies in place to support farmers and promote the growth of specialty crops. These include financial assistance, technical support, and marketing programs to help farmers reach new customers and expand their businesses.

What are specialty crops

Specialty crops are defined by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and floriculture and nursery crops. These crops are not typically considered as field crops such as wheat, corn, and soybeans, but are rather grown for their unique taste, appearance, and value-added uses. Examples of specialty crops include berries, melons, grapes, fresh herbs, mushrooms, honey, maple syrup, Christmas trees, and many more. Specialty crops are often grown on smaller farms and require more intensive management practices, including specialized equipment and labor. These crops play an important role in diversifying the agriculture industry and providing consumers with a wide range of fresh, locally-grown options.

Specialty crops are grown in various parts of the United States, including California, Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Texas, Michigan, Washington, Oregon, and many other states. The specific crops grown in each region may vary depending on climate, soil conditions, and other factors. For example, California is known for its specialty crops such as avocados, almonds, and grapes, while Florida is known for citrus fruits and strawberries. In the Midwest, specialty crops such as sweet corn, pumpkins, and tomatoes are popular, while in the Pacific Northwest, berries and tree fruits are commonly grown as specialty crops. Overall, specialty crops play an important role in the agricultural industry and contribute to the diversity of crops available to consumers.

Illinois’s Specialty crops

Illinois is famous for producing several specialty crops. Some of the crops that Illinois is well-known for include corn, soybeans, pumpkins, apples, grapes, peaches, strawberries, and blueberries. In addition to these crops, Illinois also produces several varieties of vegetables such as sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and zucchini. Illinois is also known for its production of specialty grains such as popcorn, oats, and wheat. The state’s fertile soil, temperate climate, and ample rainfall make it an ideal location for growing a wide range of crops. Moreover, Illinois farmers use advanced agricultural practices and technologies to ensure high yields and quality produce. Here are a few of the top ones:

1. Pumpkins

Illinois is known for its rich and diverse agricultural production, and one crop that stands out during the fall season is pumpkins. With its ideal climate and fertile soil, Illinois is a top producer of pumpkins, making it a popular destination for crop tours. From small family farms to larger commercial operations, visitors can experience the joy of pumpkin picking and carving, explore pumpkin mazes, and indulge in pumpkin-flavored treats. In addition to being a fun activity, these tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the cultivation and harvesting process of pumpkins. With pumpkin patches spread throughout the state, Illinois has become a top destination for those seeking a traditional fall experience in the heart of America’s breadbasket.

2. Apples

Illinois is known for its rich and fertile soil, making it an ideal location for the growth of various crops. One of the state’s most beloved crops is apples, which are grown in abundance in orchards throughout Illinois. Apples are a specialty crop that is widely celebrated and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, especially during the fall season when they are harvested. Visitors can take a tour of apple orchards and witness the process of apple picking, learn about the different varieties of apples grown in Illinois, and even participate in apple-related activities such as cider pressing and pie-making. The apple harvest is truly a special time in Illinois, and crop tours provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the state’s agricultural heritage and taste the delicious fruits of its labor.

3. Corn

Corn is one of Illinois’ most iconic and profitable crops, with the state ranking among the top producers in the United States. Known as “the Corn Belt,” Illinois has a long history of corn production, with many farms specializing in the crop. Visitors to Illinois can take advantage of the state’s agritourism opportunities to learn about the history and importance of corn in the state’s economy, as well as participate in activities such as corn mazes, farm tours, and corn festivals. The sweet corn harvest in late summer is a particularly popular time for corn-related events in the state. Illinois corn is a staple in the state’s agriculture industry and is grown on millions of acres each year. It’s one of the most important specialty crops in Illinois and serves as a primary source of feed for livestock, as well as a key ingredient in many food products. During crop tours, visitors can see the different varieties of corn grown in the state, from sweet corn to field corn, and learn about the different uses of each. They can also see the different stages of growth, from planting to harvest, and learn about the innovative technologies used by farmers to increase crop yields and protect the environment. In addition, crop tours often include educational activities such as corn mazes and corn-themed games, making it a fun and interactive experience for all ages.

4. Soybeans

Illinois soybeans are an important specialty crop for crop tours in the state. Soybeans are one of the top crops grown in Illinois, and the state is among the leading soybean producers in the country. During crop tours, visitors can learn about the soybean growing process, from planting to harvesting. They can also learn about the various uses of soybeans, such as in food products, animal feed, and industrial applications. Soybeans are also used to produce biodiesel, a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based diesel fuel. Crop tours in Illinois provide an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of soybeans as a specialty crop and their impact on the state’s economy and beyond.

5. Grapes

Illinois may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it’s actually home to a thriving grape industry. Illinois is home to two American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), Shawnee Hills and Upper Mississippi Valley. The state’s climate and soil provide ideal conditions for growing several grape varieties, including Chambourcin, Vignoles, and Norton. Many of the wineries in Illinois offer tours that allow visitors to learn about the grape growing process, see the vineyards up close, and sample the finished product. In addition to wine, grapes are also used to make grape juice and jelly, and some farms offer tours that showcase these processes as well. A visit to an Illinois vineyard can be a unique and educational experience for anyone interested in wine or agriculture.