Ontario farms grow 200 local foods
Watermelon, a fruit often linked to warmer U.S. states, is grown in southern Ontario during the summer months. In 2023, Ontario farmers produced 35,084 tonnes of watermelon, accounting for 96.7% of the total Canadian watermelon production.
Sweet potatoes are another example. In Ontario, farmers typically grow the Beauregard and Covington varieties.
Both watermelon and sweet potatoes have been specially developed to grow in Canada’s climate.
Which begs the question, what other non-obvious produce do we grow in Ontario?
The province is a world leader in ginseng production, exporting large amounts to China and Taiwan.
Ontario also grows hazelnuts, with companies like Ferrero Canada using them to make popular treats like Ferrero Rocher.
Asian greens such as bok choy and nappa cabbage are grown in the Holland Marsh, just north of Toronto.
Ontario is home to more than 200 different farm and food products. From fruits and vegetables to grains, dairy, and even flowers, the province’s rich farmland supports a wide range of local products.
Traditional favourites like apples, carrots, potatoes, beans, and sweet corn are grown in many regions. Ontario also grows berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and cherries, along with vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and peppers.
“Our climate and our incredibly rich farmland give us the opportunity to grow and produce an enviable range of food and farm products here in Ontario – both for consumers here at home and people across Canada and around the world,” said Angela Cammaert, a director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.
“Choosing local means you’re supporting local farm businesses and sustainable farming practices – but it’s also a key way to put the focus on the importance of preserving that rich farmland and why it’s so critical that we keep it for agricultural uses.”
The OFA’s Home Grown campaign raises awareness about preserving farmland to grow food, fuel, flowers, and fibre. Learn more at homegrownofa.ca.