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Reduce Dependence on Imported Vegetables

Support Canadian Produce

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Canada and the US have enjoyed open trade for decades, with imported fruits and vegetables into Canada significantly improving the average Canadian diet, particularly in the winter months. In light of recent developments, including the imposition of tariffs on Canadian imports by the US administration, many Canadians are seeking ways to reduce reliance on products from south of the border. The retaliatory tariffs imposed on US products coming into Canada has been announced and includes “certain fruits and vegetables”. By focusing on locally grown produce, consumers can support domestic agriculture and potentially avoid price increases associated with these tariffs.

Commonly Imported Vegetables from the U.S. to Canada & Growing Them in Zone 3 Alberta

Canada imports a variety of vegetables from the United States to meet year-round demand and supplement domestic production. However, many of these can be successfully grown in Alberta’s Zone 3 climate with the right techniques.

Lettuce

  • Why It’s Imported: Due to its perishable nature and the demand for fresh lettuce throughout the year, significant quantities are imported, especially during Canada’s colder months.
  • Growing Lettuce in Zone 3 Alberta: Lettuce thrives in cooler temperatures and can be grown in early spring and fall. Direct sow seeds as soon as the soil is workable in spring and use row covers to extend the season. Hardy varieties like Romaine and Butterhead perform well in Alberta’s climate.

a photo of a large bunch of freshly harvested carrots, still covered in dirt by owlcreek.caCarrots

  • Why It’s Imported: While Canada produces a substantial amount of carrots, imports from the U.S. help meet market demand, especially when local stocks run low in winter.
  • Growing Carrots in Zone 3 Alberta: Carrots prefer cooler temperatures and loose, well-draining soil. Sow seeds directly outdoors as soon as the ground can be worked in spring. Mulching helps retain moisture and protect roots from temperature fluctuations.

Tomatoes

  • Why It’s Imported: Tomatoes require warm growing conditions, and many imported varieties help meet consumer demand during Canada’s colder months.
  • Growing Tomatoes in Zone 3 Alberta: Due to the short growing season, early-maturing varieties work best. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant outdoors in June. Greenhouses and cold frames can extend the season.

Bell Peppers

  • Why It’s Imported: Bell peppers have a long growing season and require warm temperatures, making year-round imports necessary.
  • Growing Bell Peppers in Zone 3 Alberta: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. Transplant outdoors only after the risk of frost has passed, using black mulch to retain soil warmth. Greenhouses or low tunnels can enhance growth and yield.

Cucumbers

  • Why It’s Imported: Cucumbers are highly perishable and require warm conditions to thrive, leading to a reliance on imports.
  • Growing in Zone 3 Alberta: Direct seed in late May or transplant from indoor starts in early June. Use trellising to maximize space and prevent rot. Greenhouse-grown cucumbers offer an extended harvest season.

Vegetables Commonly Grown in Canada by Canadian Farmers

Along with growing your own food as a way of reducing reliance on imported vegetables, supporting Canadian-grown produce is key to strengthening local agriculture. Some people don’t have the room to grow squash, and many people struggle with broccoli and cauliflower, so buying Canadian grown is next best to growing your own. The following vegetables are widely grown by Canadian farmers and are readily available in local markets:

  • Potatoes – Thrive in Canada’s climate and are available year-round.
  • Beets – Cold-hardy and excellent for storage.
  • Onions – Grown across Canada with good storage capability.
  • Cabbage – Tolerates cool temperatures and stores well.
  • Broccoli & Cauliflower – Adaptable to cool growing conditions.
  • Peas – Early season crop that thrives in Alberta’s climate.
  • Beans – Both bush and pole varieties do well in warm summer months.
  • Corn – Short-season varieties like Painted Mountain can be grown successfully.
  • Squash & Pumpkins – Suitable for warm summers; store well into winter.

To mitigate the impact of tariffs and support local agriculture, Canadians can consider the following approaches:

an image of a basket of fresh vegetables by owlcreek.ca made in DALL-ESeasonal Eating

Aligning meal planning with locally available, in-season produce supports local farmers and ensures fresher, more nutritious food choices. Purchasing root vegetables and winter storage crops in bulk can reduce the need for imports.

Home Gardening

Growing your own vegetables is a rewarding way to reduce reliance on imports. With Alberta’s shorter growing season, choosing cold-hardy or early-maturing varieties is key. Raised beds, cold frames, and greenhouses can help extend the growing season.

Supporting Local Farmers

Purchasing produce from local farmers’ markets, farm stands, or through Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs ensures that your food is locally sourced and supports the domestic economy. Look for Canadian-grown labels in grocery stores.

Preserving Produce

Canning, freezing, or drying locally grown vegetables during peak seasons ensures an off-season supply of Canadian-grown produce, reducing reliance on imports.

By adopting these strategies, Canadians can lessen their dependence on imported vegetables, support local agriculture, and potentially avoid the economic impacts associated with international trade tariffs.

Amy
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