What is going on
The humble tomato is the newest casualty of inflation. Prices at the grocery store have climbed over 20% in the past year — and that means your BLTs, burgers, salads, ketchup, and pizza are all about to cost you more.
Why? It comes down to trade policy according to ” The Economist”. In 2025, the U.S. withdrew from the Tomato Suspension Agreement — yes, that’s a real thing — and a 17% levy now applies to tomatoes exported from Mexico. That matters because Mexico supplies the vast majority of fresh tomatoes sold in American grocery stores. With that pipeline taxed, prices have shot up fast. You may even notice your favorite restaurant quietly dropping them from the menu to cut costs.
Unlike eggs, tomatoes do not require livestock. You can grow them in a garden, in a pot by a sunny window, or anywhere with good sunlight. The power is literally in your hands.
Why tomatoes are worth growing
Heart health
Packed with lycopene, vitamins C & K, and potassium
Skin & vision
Antioxidants that protect cells and promote radiance
Stress relief
Gardening brings nature time, sunlight, and calm
Budget win
A few dollars of seeds or a plant = a whole lot of tomatoes
