Tomato prices rise in March

(CNN)– As warm weather calls for more burgers, salsa, and salads, seasonal demand for tomatoes is picking up.

However, tomatoes are pretty pricey right now.

According to the Consumer Price Index, tomato prices are up nearly 23% compared to this time last year.

They retail for roughly $2.25 a pound.

That’s the highest level in eight years.

A deep freeze during Florida’s peak tomato season combined with wet weather during Mexico’s tomato growing season shrunk the crop size this year.

The 17% tariff on tomatoes from Mexico, and higher diesel and fertilizer costs are also affecting prices.