Which crop is primarily grown in Kentucky for its high cash return?

Corn is primarily grown in Kentucky for its high cash return due to several factors that contribute to its economic viability. Kentucky's climate and soil conditions are particularly well-suited for corn production, allowing for high yields. Corn is a staple crop that serves multiple markets, including livestock feed, biofuel production (especially ethanol), and various food products.

Moreover, corn is part of a robust agricultural framework as it is often rotated with other crops, which can enhance soil health and reduce pest pressures. The demand for corn, both domestically and internationally, is strong, meaning that it often provides farmers with a consistent and lucrative income. The infrastructure in Kentucky, such as grain elevators and transportation networks, further supports corn's profitability, making it a key crop in the state's agricultural economy.

In contrast, while potatoes, strawberries, and wheat can also be valuable crops, they do not generally match corn's high volume and return on investment in Kentucky, particularly given the scale of corn production and its established markets.