The production of the top five fresh vegetables, not including potatoes, increased 2% from the prior season, though the national supply of fresh-market vegetables dropped by 1.2% in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service Situation and Outlook Report.
The production increase was instigated by expansions in planted acreage, improved weather conditions and increased yields. Increases in the production of lettuce, onions and tomatoes offset decreases in carrot and pumpkin production. Romaine lettuce increased 15.7%, while onions increased 2.2% and tomatoes increased 2.3%.
Domestic supply comprises almost two-thirds of the fresh-market supply. It decreased by 1.6% in 2023.
Beyond the five leading vegetables, there were decreases in the production of cabbage, broccoli, celery, cauliflower, spinach, squash and sweet potatoes. Their decreases offset gains in sweet corn, artichokes and asparagus.