The most expensive things that can be planted and grown...

[MJ DeMarco]

Sorted by retail value per pound, can you please give me the TOP 10 list of legal plants, fruits, fungi, or vegetables that can be grown and harvested in either Canada, Mexico, or the USA? Please sort by most expensive and do not include cannabis related items.

 

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[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Certainly! Here are the top 10 legal plants, fruits, fungi, or vegetables sorted by retail value per pound:

1. Vanilla Beans: Vanilla beans are one of the most expensive crops on the planet, and can be grown in Mexico. They can cost between $600 and $700 per pound. (MODERATOR NOTE: It is $150/per pound, not $6-700.)

2. Saffron: Saffron is another highly valued spice, and can be cultivated in the United States. Saffron can sell for up to $500 per pound.

3. Truffles: Truffles are a type of fungi that are highly valued for their rich flavor and aroma. They can be found in various regions of the USA, and can sell for up to $250 per pound.

4. Ginseng: Ginseng is a root that is highly prized for its medicinal properties. It can be grown in Canada, and can sell for up to $200 per pound.

5. Morel Mushrooms: Morel mushrooms have a unique flavor and texture, and are highly sought after by chefs. They can be found in the USA, and can sell for up to $150 per pound.

6. Chanterelle Mushrooms: Chanterelle mushrooms are another highly prized fungi that can be found in the USA. They can sell for up to $100 per pound.

7. Blueberries: Blueberries are a popular fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $4 per pound.

8. Raspberries: Raspberries are another popular fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $3 per pound.

9. Blackberries: Blackberries are another fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $2 per pound.

10. Peppers: Peppers are a vegetable that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. Some varieties, such as habanero peppers, can sell for up to $1 per pound.

It's worth noting that the prices listed above are subject to change depending on a variety of factors including supply and demand, seasonality, and regionality.

 

[MJ DeMarco]

Certainly! Here are the top 10 legal plants, fruits, fungi, or vegetables sorted by retail value per pound:

1. Vanilla Beans: Vanilla beans are one of the most expensive crops on the planet, and can be grown in Mexico. They can cost between $600 and $700 per pound.

2. Saffron: Saffron is another highly valued spice, and can be cultivated in the United States. Saffron can sell for up to $500 per pound.

3. Truffles: Truffles are a type of fungi that are highly valued for their rich flavor and aroma. They can be found in various regions of the USA, and can sell for up to $250 per pound.

4. Ginseng: Ginseng is a root that is highly prized for its medicinal properties. It can be grown in Canada, and can sell for up to $200 per pound.

5. Morel Mushrooms: Morel mushrooms have a unique flavor and texture, and are highly sought after by chefs. They can be found in the USA, and can sell for up to $150 per pound.

6. Chanterelle Mushrooms: Chanterelle mushrooms are another highly prized fungi that can be found in the USA. They can sell for up to $100 per pound.

7. Blueberries: Blueberries are a popular fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $4 per pound.

8. Raspberries: Raspberries are another popular fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $3 per pound.

9. Blackberries: Blackberries are another fruit that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They can sell for up to $2 per pound.

10. Peppers: Peppers are a vegetable that can be grown in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. Some varieties, such as habanero peppers, can sell for up to $1 per pound.

It's worth noting that the prices listed above are subject to change depending on a variety of factors including supply and demand, seasonality, and regionality.

How many of these can be grown and harvested in a greenhouse, provided the greenhouse is optimized for the growing environment?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

How many of these can be grown and harvested in a greenhouse, provided the greenhouse is optimized for the growing environment?

Many of the items on the list can be grown and harvested in a greenhouse, provided the greenhouse is optimized for the growing environment. Here are some examples:

1. Vanilla Beans: Vanilla can be grown in a greenhouse, but requires a warm and humid environment to thrive.

2. Saffron: Saffron can be grown in a greenhouse in areas with the right climate conditions, including cool winters and hot summers.

3. Truffles: Truffles can be grown in a greenhouse, but they are difficult to cultivate.

4. Ginseng: Ginseng can be grown in a greenhouse, and it can be easier to control the soil and growing conditions in a controlled environment.

5. Morel mushrooms: Morel mushrooms can be grown in a greenhouse, and it can be easier to control the humidity and temperature levels in a controlled environment.

6. Chanterelle mushrooms: Chanterelle mushrooms can be grown in a greenhouse, but they require very specific temperature and humidity levels to fruit.

7. Blueberries: Blueberries can be grown in a greenhouse, and they are often grown in containers or raised beds to manage soil conditions and pH levels.

8. Raspberries: Raspberries can be grown in a greenhouse, and it can be easier to manage pests and diseases in a controlled environment.

9. Blackberries: Blackberries can be grown in a greenhouse, and it can be easier to manage soil and pest conditions in a controlled environment.

10. Peppers: Peppers can be grown in a greenhouse, and they are often produced hydroponically to manage plant nutrition and water usage.

It's important to note that successful greenhouse cultivation depends on many factors, including the specific plant species, the local climate, and the specific growing techniques used. Optimal growing conditions must be maintained in order to obtain high yield and quality.

 

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[MJ DeMarco]

1. Vanilla Beans: Vanilla can be grown in a greenhouse, but requires a warm and humid environment to thrive.

If I had a greenhouse that was optimized to grow vanilla beans and the greenhouse had 1000 square feet of growing area, how many pounds of vanilla beans could I grow in one harvest and what would be its value, provided that the greenhouse was designed to grow vanilla beans in the optimal conditions?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

If I had a greenhouse that was optimized to grow vanilla beans and the greenhouse had 1000 square feet of growing area, how many pounds of vanilla beans could I grow in one harvest and what would be its value, provided that the greenhouse was designed to grow vanilla beans in the optimal conditions?

Assuming optimal conditions, you could grow around 150-200 vanilla plants in a 1000 square feet greenhouse area. With proper care and maintenance, each plant could yield around 1-2 pounds of green vanilla beans per year. After curing, which is a lengthy and delicate process, the final yield of dried vanilla beans can be around 20-25% of the green weight.

So, with 150-200 plants in 1000 square feet of greenhouse space, you could produce around 150-400 pounds of green vanilla beans per year. After curing, you could expect a final yield of around 30-100 pounds of dried vanilla beans per year.

The value of vanilla beans can vary greatly depending on market conditions, quality, and origin. As of August 2021, natural vanilla beans are selling for around $100-120 per pound. So, if your 1000 square feet greenhouse produced 30-100 pounds of dried vanilla beans per year and you sold them for $100 per pound, you could potentially earn $3,000-10,000 per year. However, it's worth noting that vanilla is a highly price-volatile crop, and market prices can fluctuate greatly from year to year, sometimes reaching much higher or much lower prices than the current average.

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

It’s just too easy now!

I'm sorry, I'm not sure what you mean by "It's just too easy now!" If you have any further questions, please let me know and I'll do my best to help!

 

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[MJ DeMarco]

After curing, which is a lengthy and delicate process

Can you give me some details and instructions on the curing process?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Can you give me some details and instructions on the curing process?

Sure! Curing vanilla beans is a multi-step process that takes several months to complete. Here's a general overview of the process:

1. Blanching: The harvested green vanilla beans are briefly blanched in boiling water to stop the enzyme action inside the beans and to kill any bacteria on the surface.

2. Sweating: The beans are then wrapped in blankets or towels and placed in a warm and dark location for 24-72 hours to start the sweating process. This process helps to initiate the enzymatic breakdown of the beans’ cell walls and to prepare them for the next stage.

3. Drying: Once the sweating process is complete, the beans are then spread out on racks or screens in a well-ventilated area for several weeks, with the temperature and humidity being carefully controlled. The beans are dried until they are about 20-30% moisture content.

4. Conditioning: Once the drying process is complete, the beans are placed in closed containers to "sweat" further and age. During this step, the beans release excess moisture and chemicals that contribute to flavor development. The conditioning process can take several months to a year.

5. Storage: Finished vanilla beans can be stored in a cool and dry place in airtight containers for months or even years.

It's important to note that curing vanilla beans requires patience, attention to detail, and proper equipment. Proper control of temperature, humidity, and ventilation is critical to ensuring that the beans do not become moldy or become over-dried. The curing process can vary depending on local climatic conditions, but the above steps are the general procedure that is usually followed.

 

[MJ DeMarco]

It's important to note that curing vanilla beans requires patience, attention to detail, and proper equipment. Proper control of temperature, humidity, and ventilation is critical to ensuring that the beans do not become moldy or become over-dried. The curing process can vary depending on local climatic conditions, but the above steps are the general procedure that is usually followed.

Measured in millions of US dollars, what is the approximate demand for vanilla beans in all of North America?

 

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[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Measured in millions of US dollars, what is the approximate demand for vanilla beans in all of North America?

Accurate data on the demand for vanilla beans in North America is difficult to obtain. However, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global vanilla market was valued at around $525 million USD in 2020 and is expected to reach $696.6 million USD by 2025. North America is one of the largest markets for vanilla products, with the United States being the biggest consumer of vanilla beans in the world. Based on these figures, it's safe to assume that the demand for vanilla beans in North America is likely to be in the tens of millions of US dollars per year. However, it's important to note that this estimate may not accurately reflect the actual demand, as fluctuations in prices and demand can occur due to various factors such as availability and market conditions.

 

[MJ DeMarco]

Accurate data on the demand for vanilla beans in North America is difficult to obtain. However, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence, the global vanilla market was valued at around $525 million USD in 2020 and is expected to reach $696.6 million USD by 2025. North America is one of the largest markets for vanilla products, with the United States being the biggest consumer of vanilla beans in the world. Based on these figures, it's safe to assume that the demand for vanilla beans in North America is likely to be in the tens of millions of US dollars per year. However, it's important to note that this estimate may not accurately reflect the actual demand, as fluctuations in prices and demand can occur due to various factors such as availability and market conditions.

Based on these numbers you provided, if I want to control 1% of the vanilla bean market, approximately how many acres of land will I need if that land was optimal for growing, or the land was outfitted with greenhouses?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Based on these numbers you provided, if I want to control 1% of the vanilla bean market, approximately how many acres of land will I need if that land was optimal for growing, or the land was outfitted with greenhouses?

To calculate the estimated acreage needed to control 1% of the vanilla bean market in North America, we need to make a few assumptions.

First, we'll assume that North America accounts for 10% of the global vanilla market (based on its position as a major vanilla consuming region).

Then, we'll use the 2020 global vanilla market value of $525 million USD as a starting point. To control 1% of this market, we would need to produce vanilla beans worth $5.25 million USD.

Next, we'll assume that vanilla beans can be harvested at a rate of 2 pounds per plant per year and sold for $100 per pound. This means that to generate $5.25 million USD in revenue, we would need to grow and sell approximately 26,250 pounds of vanilla beans per year.

Using the average yield of 1-2 pounds per plant per year from our earlier estimate, this would mean that we would need to grow between 13,125 and 26,250 vanilla plants each year.

Finally, the amount of land required to grow this number of plants will depend on a variety of factors, including the planting density, the size of each plant, and the growing conditions. It's difficult to provide an exact estimate without more information, but generally speaking, each vanilla plant requires around 10 square feet of canopy space in a greenhouse, or around 30-40 square feet of growing space if grown outdoors. So, if we assume a planting density of 30-40 square feet per plant, we would need approximately 4,375-11,000 square feet of canopy or growing space to grow 13,125-26,250 plants.

Converting square feet to acres, this means that to control 1% of the vanilla bean market in North America, we would need between 0.1-0.25 acres of land if the land was outfitted with greenhouses, or between 0.3-0.7 acres of land if grown outdoors. It's worth noting that this estimate is very rough and could vary widely depending on the specific growing conditions and practices used.

 

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[Andreas Thiel]

As of August 2021, natural vanilla beans are selling for around $100-120 per pound.

Didn't the price range drop from $600-$700 in an earlier reply to $100-$120? I suppose the expensive beans are special somehow, then?

 

[MJ DeMarco]

Next, we'll assume that vanilla beans can be harvested at a rate of 2 pounds per plant per year and sold for $100 per pound.

Did you say earlier that the average retail price per pound was $600-$700? Can you check your math?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

Did you say earlier that the average retail price per pound was $600-$700? Can you check your math?

I apologize for any confusion. I mistakenly provided a wrong value for the average retail price of vanilla beans in an earlier response. As of August 2021, the average wholesale price of vanilla beans is around $100-120 per pound, which is significantly lower than the $600-$700 per pound figure mentioned earlier.

There are certain types of vanilla, such as Tahitian or Madagascar Bourbon, that are highly valued and can command a higher price in the market. However, in general, the market price for vanilla beans is highly variable and can fluctuate based on a variety of factors such as supply and demand, market conditions, and quality of the beans. Again, I apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by my earlier response.

 

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[REV5028]

Interesting thread! I'm surprised things like pecans and pistachios didn't make the list.

 

[MarcusRich]

I apologize for any confusion. I mistakenly provided a wrong value for the average retail price of vanilla beans in an earlier response. As of August 2021, the average wholesale price of vanilla beans is around $100-120 per pound, which is significantly lower than the $600-$700 per pound figure mentioned earlier.

There are certain types of vanilla, such as Tahitian or Madagascar Bourbon, that are highly valued and can command a higher price in the market. However, in general, the market price for vanilla beans is highly variable and can fluctuate based on a variety of factors such as supply and demand, market conditions, and quality of the beans. Again, I apologize for any confusion that may have been caused by my earlier response.

I am curious if there are any products that did not make this list but have a higher profit yield ratio based on the cost of growth and overall space required for growth. Are there any legal plants that did not make this list that would have a higher profit with 10000 sq ft of growing space than vanilla?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

I am curious if there are any products that did not make this list but have a higher profit yield ratio based on the cost of growth and overall space required for growth. Are there any legal plants that did not make this list that would have a higher profit with 10000 sq ft of growing space than vanilla?

It's possible that there are other crops that have a higher profit yield ratio than vanilla, depending on the specific growing conditions and market demands. However, it's difficult to provide a comprehensive answer without knowing more details about the costs and expected revenue for each crop.

Some crops that are known for having a high-profit yield ratio include saffron, truffles, and certain medicinal herbs. Saffron, for example, can sell for over $5,000 per pound and is one of the most expensive spices in the world. Truffles are also highly valued and can sell for around $800 per pound, depending on the variety and quality.

There are also certain medicinal herbs that can be grown and sold for a high profit, such as ginseng and echinacea. These herbs are often in demand for their purported health benefits and can sell for high prices.

However, it's worth noting that the profitability of a given crop depends on a variety of factors, including market demand, growing conditions, labor costs, processing and distribution costs, and more. It's important to carefully research and assess all of these factors before deciding which crops to grow in a given area.

 

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[Dmorr]

Sorted by retail value per pound, can you please give me the TOP 10 list of legal plants, fruits, fungi, or vegetables that can be grown and harvested in either Canada, Mexico, or the USA? Please sort by most expensive and do not include cannabis related items.

Don’t really know where you are going with this question. If you are looking for an agricultural product to produce from a greenhouse type facility you might consider producing vermicompost using earthworms. A facility of that size could produce $400,000 + per year with little to zero input expense except for some labor depending on your situation.

 

[GuestUser4aMPs1]

If you are looking for an agricultural product to produce from a greenhouse type facility you might consider producing vermicompost using earthworms. A facility of that size could produce $400,000 + per year with little to zero input expense except for some labor depending on your situation.

@Eva (AI-Bot) what do you think of this?

 

[Niptuck MD]

curious to know as well

 

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[MJ DeMarco]

It's possible that there are other crops that have a higher profit yield ratio than vanilla, depending on the specific growing conditions and market demands.

Can you tell me specific industry details about growing vermicompost using earthworms?

 

[Eva (AI-Bot)]

@Eva (AI-Bot) what do you think of this?

curious to know as well

Can you tell me specific industry details about growing vermicompost using earthworms?

Certainly! Vermicompost, also known as worm castings, is a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer produced from the breakdown of organic matter by earthworms. Here are some specific industry details about growing vermicompost:

1. Process: Vermicomposting involves creating an environment conducive for earthworms to break down organic materials like food waste, agricultural residues, and other organic waste. The worms consume the organic matter, and their castings (excrement) are harvested as vermicompost.

2. Earthworm Species: The most commonly used species for vermicomposting is Eisenia fetida, also known as red wrigglers or redworms. These earthworms thrive in organic waste and reproduce quickly.

3. Requirements: Vermicomposting can be done on a small scale using simple setups or on a larger commercial scale. Key requirements include suitable bedding material (e.g., shredded paper or coconut coir), proper moisture levels, temperature control (ideally between 15-25°C or 59-77°F), adequate aeration, and regular feeding of organic waste.

4. Production Time: The time required for vermicompost production varies depending on the scale, conditions, and quality desired. It typically ranges from a few months to several months.

5. Market Demand: Organic farming, sustainable agriculture, and green practices have increased the demand for vermicompost. It is sought after by home gardeners, commercial growers, landscapers, and the horticultural industry.

6. Profitability: The profitability of vermicompost production depends on factors such as production costs, market demand, and pricing. Generally, the profit margins can be significant, as the input costs are relatively low compared to the selling price. However, it's essential to consider factors such as labor, equipment, and marketing when assessing profitability.

7. Market Channels: Vermicompost can be sold directly to consumers, local garden centers, farmers' markets, and online platforms. Building relationships with local farmers, landscapers, and agricultural organizations can also provide potential sales channels.

8. Regulations: Depending on your location, there may be specific regulations or permits required to operate a vermicomposting facility. It's important to research and comply with local regulations related to waste management, organic certification (if applicable), and any other relevant permits.

As with any agricultural venture, it's crucial to conduct thorough market research, assess your specific resources and constraints, and develop a solid business plan before starting a vermicomposting operation.

 

[Dmorr]

Can you tell me specific industry details about growing vermicompost using earthworms?

Worms are grown mostly for their castings (excrement) which is good organic fertilizer. Vermicast is another word that is used to mean the same. The castings are used as an additive to the soil to make the nutrients more available to the plant. Worm castings sell for a range of $.50 to $2.00+ per pound. The cost of production varies depending on the circumstances. Worms can eat a little over half their weight per day in food. A pound of worms is about 1000 worms. About 2500 worms per square foot is the strived for bedding density. At this density about 1-2 lbs. of castings can be produced per day per sq. ft..
Worms are raised in a cool, wet and dark environment. Red Wigglers are the most common species of worm used for making castings(vermicompost). They can be grown in small bins in your home being fed vegetable scraps and shredded paper and they can be grown commercially by the millions being fed many different types of organic waste products.
Raising worms to produce castings is a very environmentally friendly enterprise. The market for the castings is any home gardener, golf courses, nurseries, commercial vegetable producers, cannabis growers, etc. (the cannabis industry may be the largest market potential).
Currently there is a shortage of earthworms and earthworm farms.
I am growing a business to the point of commercial production. I am not to the point of sales but am producing for our own use in our garden and to make my promotional materials for when I am in commercial production. We have horses and I am feeding the horse manure and bedding to my worms. My goal is $1,000,000 sales in one year. At that point in time I will adjust my goal. I started with 5,000 worms and in three years I should grow into 15,000,000 to 20,000,000 worms. At that point I should be producing 2 to 3,000,000 pounds of castings per year. In this time I will grow my market and facility to manage these numbers of worms.

 

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[Dmorr]

Can you tell me specific industry details about growing vermicompost using earthworms?

To add to the conversation: Beginning mid Sept 2023 I purchased five pounds of earthworms. I began raising them in 30 gallon tubs feeding them aged horse manure and mushroom substrate. I now have roughly 50 pounds of worms and have moved them to a 4’x8’x2.5’ Cft bin. I started in a 8’x12’ insulated room and have moved to a 12’x12’ insulated room. I have produced approximately 300 lbs of castings with a value of about $600. My worm population is worth about $1,250. I have spent around $750 on worms and materials. At this rate of growth I will be producing a monthly income of about $5000 from this space very soon. My plan is to grow to five 10’x5’x2.5’ bins within the next year as my worm population grows. With these bins and my current inventory my income should be +/-$15,000-17,500 per month. This my goal by June 2025 or sooner. I would be glad to share details and pictures in a private setting.