Idaho is widely recognized for its agricultural output, but its production capabilities extend far beyond a single famous vegetable. The state’s unique combination of high desert plains, mountain ranges, and river valleys, particularly the irrigated Snake River Plain, supports a highly diversified agricultural economy. This varied geography and climate allow farmers to cultivate a wide range of commodities. The total value of agricultural production in the state exceeds $11 billion annually, ranking Idaho among the top US states for the production of numerous crops.
Potatoes and Other Major Root Crops
The reputation for its subterranean produce is well-earned, as Idaho’s environment provides specific conditions that favor root crops. The state’s volcanic, nutrient-rich soil is characterized by its light, sandy to silty loam texture, which allows for the proper development and easy harvest of tubers and roots. The arid climate, marked by warm summer days and cool nights, promotes the development of high-solids content in potatoes, resulting in the desired texture for baking and processing.
This intensive production relies heavily on irrigation, primarily from the Snake River and its tributaries, with nearly all commercial potato acreage utilizing sprinkler systems. While the Russet variety is dominant, the state also produces over 30 varieties, including yellow and red-skinned types. Sugar beets are another significant root crop, with Idaho ranking as the second-largest US producer.
Sugar beets are rotated with other crops and grown primarily for sugar, containing an average of about 18% sugar content at harvest. The co-product, beet pulp, is a high-quality feed source for the state’s livestock and dairy industries. Onions are also a major crop grown on a large scale, with the state accounting for approximately 10% of the nation’s dry onion supply.
Essential Grains and Forage Production
Beyond root crops, the production of grains and forage is essential for Idaho’s agricultural ecosystem. The state is the leading producer of barley in the United States, with a majority of the crop grown for malting purposes. The cool growing seasons and reliable irrigation create the plump, low-protein kernels preferred by the brewing industry.
Wheat is also a major commodity, with Idaho farmers growing five of the six classes of wheat. Soft white wheat is the most common variety, valued for its low-moisture content and used predominantly for pastries, crackers, and Asian-style noodles, with a large portion destined for export markets. Grains like wheat and barley are frequently used in multi-year crop rotations to improve soil health and manage pests for high-value crops like potatoes and sugar beets.
Forage production, particularly alfalfa hay, is the second most valuable crop in the state, largely supporting the dairy and beef industries. Alfalfa provides a high-protein feed source, and its deep roots enhance the nitrogen content and organic matter of the soil. This hay production creates a closed agricultural loop, where crops feed the livestock, which in turn sustain a robust dairy and beef processing sector.
High-Value Specialty Crops and Seeds
Idaho’s agricultural diversity extends to specialized crops that thrive in the unique climate. The state is the second-largest producer of hops in the country, a perennial plant whose cones are essential for flavoring beer. Hops flourish in the southwestern region, benefitting from the combination of long summer daylight hours and cold winter dormancy periods provided by the 45th parallel latitude.
Mint is another specialized crop grown for its essential oil, with Idaho ranking fourth nationally in spearmint production. The quality of the mint oil is highly dependent on the dry, sunny growing season and precise irrigation management to prevent cloudiness in the final product. Mint plants are established using rhizomes, not seeds, which allows for rapid expansion of acreage.
The state is also globally recognized as a major hub for the vegetable and flower seed industry. Its geographic isolation and arid environment naturally minimize the spread of plant diseases, making it an ideal location for growing seeds for crops such as sweet corn, onions, and carrots. This specialized seed production is a high-value segment of Idaho’s agriculture.