Miami-Dade County’s Agricultural industry is one of the most diverse in the country. Our tropical climate provides us with a year-round growing season, as well as the ability to produce an extremely wide range of crops. Employing more than 20,000 people and producing more than $2.7 Billion in economic impact each year, this industry is a valuable resource for Miami-Dade County. Coupled with the economic benefits, are environmental and aesthetic advantages. A Farmer’s land, in addition to producing crops, also acts as open space that allows for water recharge areas and wildlife habitat, providing a benefit to all residents of Miami-Dade County.

During winter months our growers produce traditional vegetables like green beans, tomatoes, strawberries and squash, while it is too cold in other parts of the country to raise them. We also have year- round production of tropical fruits and vegetables such as avocados, passion fruit, malanga and boniato. Another sector of the industry is Asian specialties like Thai guava, Thai basil, Thai eggplant, lemon grass, bitter melon and various herbs and spices. With this mix, Miami-Dade County is truly the “melting pot” of the produce industry.

In addition to our numerous food products, our county boasts the most foliage nurseries in the state and is number 2 in nursery production in the country. We supply foliage products around the world and are a source for everything from giant royal palms to dainty hybrid orchids.

One segment of the industry that falls into both the food and ornamental category is aquaculture. We are number 2 in the state in aquaculture, producing a wide variety of ornamental fish for tanks and ponds as well as fish for consumption. A caviar producer has also established a location here, producing this delicacy from imported Russian sturgeon stock.

Agri-tourism is an added component of the industry. There are several locations throughout the agricultural area that afford visitors the opportunity to sample and purchase locally grown products. Visitors can grab a tropical fruit or strawberry milkshake at an area fruit stand while out shopping for orchids, fresh vegetables, fruits and house plants. The area is also home to the country’s only tropical fruit winery where travelers can sample some excellent tropical fruit wine.

Agriculture is a vital part of the economy and life style of Miami-Dade County, so come out and visit the area and buy local. And always remember that our farmers feed America.