Fruit Facts: Florida Citrus History

Even though it is not native to North America, the United States is the world’s third largest producer of citrus fruit. Or should we say that Florida is? No, we don’t mean to demean the other citrus-producing states-California, Texas, and Arizona-but the truth is that they don’t produce all that much. That Sunshine State is responsible for about 80 percent of the U.S. citrus supply, which means that if you excluded the other three states, America would still be number three in production based on Florida’s output alone!

Citrus trees can only survive and thrive in warm climates, which is why Brazil is the world leader in production. But America does not have many states that receive year-round tropical or subtropical weather, with the exception of Florida. Although not large in total area (number 22 out of 50), citrus can be grown nearly anywhere in the Sunshine State because of its fertile soil, climate, and easy access to irrigation. It is for these reasons that Florida is the greatest citrus producing region on Earth, by area.

It is also important to mention that citrus arrived in Florida before it reached the other citrus producing states. According to fruit historians (yes, there are such people), Florida citrus history began when oranges, lemons, and limes were brought to Florida in the late 16^th century by Spanish and Portuguese explorers. Some pomologists claim that it was Christopher Columbus who planted the first citrus trees near the city of St. Augustine, Florida, while others maintain it was Ponce de Leon.

Every state needs a popular agricultural export it is known and loved for. Florida found its export in citrus fruit centuries before the territory became a state. These highly sensitive trees grew like wildfire in the sandy soil and subtropical climate of the Sunshine State. Long before modern transportation systems were nationally available, the seeds of this growing industry had been sown. Then when the railroad connected Florida with the rest of the nation, their wares went national.

Florida citrus history was a fait accompli the moment the first seeds were planted by explorers and their crews. The conditions, weather, and soil were perfect for growing citrus, making failure a virtual impossibility. The last chapter in Florida citrus history is one of triumph and success.

With nearly 90,000 full-time employees, the citrus industry brings about 9 billion dollars to the state each year. A world leader in grapefruit production and orange juice, Florida grows so much citrus they actually export it to other countries!