citrus dynamics

ORANGE BLOSSOM

ORANGE BLOSSOMS
Citrus buds begin to form in early Winter and develop the full blossoms in the Spring. A percentage of flowers drop from the trees and the remainder develop into a citrus variety. The temperature and moisture factors are critical during this time frame.

ORANGE GROVE

ORANGE GROVE
The growing process ranges from 5 to 18 months, depending on the variety and growing area. Most citrus can be left on the trees without becoming overripe which is typically not true for other fruit varieties.

ORANGE TREE

PRUNING
Citrus trees do not require regular pruning but growers usually trim tree tops to keep them smaller for easier access. The sides of the trees are also trimmed to allow more sunlight through to the center.

CLOSE-UP

FROST PROTECTION
Protection from frost is critical when fruit temperature drops lower than 28° F. Typically the main methods of frost protection in the growing regions are wind and water.

ORANGE BINS

FROST PROTECTION
Protection from frost is critical when fruit temperature drops lower than 28° F. Typically the main methods of frost protection in the growing regions are wind and water.

LOADED TRUCK

HAULING THE FRUIT
The bins are hauled by truck to a packing house, where the fruit is pre-graded and washed.

UNLOADING BINS

PACKING CITRUS
The fruit is taken off the truck by forklift into the warehouse. Grading is usually done by electronic camera systems and segregated according to size, then stamped or labeled.

ORANGES

ORANGES | SWEET + JUICY | AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND
The two most popular varieties of oranges are the Navel and the Valencia. Seasonal specialties include the Moro—a blood orange and the Cara Cara, all varieties have the natural orange skin color.

ORANGE HALVES

ENJOY
Oranges make a nutritious snack any time of the day. Enjoy freshly squeezed juice first thing in the morning or add to your favorite fish dish.

LOADING CARTONS

SHIPPING
Forty pound cartons of citrus are stacked on pallets and pre-cooled before being loaded on trucks or rail cars for transportation to market.

LEMON TREE

LEMONS | TART + TANGY | AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND
The vibrant yellow skin and lovely scent of the lemon family puts it in a category like no other. Lemons are a versatile fruit, use by squeezing on vegetables, salads, seafood or in a glass of water. They are a good source of Vitamin C.

LIME TREE

LIMES | FLORAL + SPICY | AVAILABLE YEAR ROUND
The color varies from bright green to light yellow and have similar characteristics as lemons. A versatile natural flavor enhancer in everything from marinades to seafood and beverages.