Ever ingenious American smokers have turned to growing their own tobacco as the average price for smokes has climbed to over $6 a pack, a price hike largely the result of the $1.01-per-pack tax that went into effect on April 1, conveniently around planting season.  Seed sales reportedly were through the roof this year.

Whether homegrown tobacco is cheaper is debatable.  Growing tobacco is difficult [a lie] for even the experienced gardener, and curing the leaves can be an art form.