How Small Citrus Growers Sustain Florida’s Citrus Industry and Where to Buy
The Best Places to Buy Fresh Florida Citrus Products and Support Small Growers
Florida is synonymous with citrus—its groves have provided some of the world’s juiciest oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines for generations. However, while major citrus corporations dominate grocery store shelves, small citrus growers are the backbone of the industry, working tirelessly to maintain Florida’s rich agricultural heritage.
The Best Places to Buy Fresh Florida Citrus Products and Support Small Growers
Supporting these small businesses not only ensures you get the freshest fruit and citrus products but also helps preserve local farms that face increasing challenges. Here’s where to buy the best Florida citrus products, why supporting small growers matters, and how they sustain the state’s citrus industry.
1. Local Citrus Stands and Markets
Florida’s roadside citrus stands are a tradition, offering fresh-picked oranges, grapefruits, and tangerines directly from small farmers. These stands often feature citrus gift boxes, fresh juices, marmalades, and local honey. Some notable ones include:
The Orange Shop (Citra, FL): A family-run operation since 1936, offering fresh citrus and specialty gift boxes.
Joshua Citrus (Arcadia, FL): A six-generation citrus farm with a retail shop selling fresh fruit, juices, and jams.
Hale Groves (Vero Beach, FL): Known for its delicious Indian River citrus, available for pickup or nationwide shipping.
2. U-Pick Citrus Farms
For a hands-on experience, visit a U-pick citrus farm where you can harvest your own fruit straight from the trees. This not only guarantees freshness but also supports farmers directly. Some top U-pick destinations include:
Ridge Island Groves (Haines City, FL): Offers U-pick oranges and grapefruits, along with fresh juice and jams.
Showcase of Citrus (Clermont, FL): A 2,500-acre farm where visitors can pick their own citrus and enjoy homemade orange juice.
Dooley Groves (Ruskin, FL): Well-known for its premium Honeybells and U-pick experiences.
3. Farmers’ Markets
Many small citrus farmers sell their produce at Florida farmers’ markets. These markets offer an opportunity to connect with growers and purchase fruit picked at peak ripeness. Some popular markets featuring Florida citrus include:
Winter Park Farmers’ Market (Winter Park, FL)
St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market (St. Petersburg, FL)
West Palm Beach GreenMarket (West Palm Beach, FL)
4. Online Citrus Growers
If you can’t make it to Florida, many small growers offer nationwide shipping. Buying online supports these businesses directly and ensures you receive the freshest citrus possible. Some reliable online citrus farms include:
Gregory’s Groves (gourmet citrus and gift boxes)
Hollieanna Groves (locally grown Florida oranges and grapefruits)
Davidson Brothers Citrus (a family-run grove since 1922 offering premium fruit and juice)
The Best Places to Buy Fresh Florida Citrus Products and Support Small Growers
Why Supporting Small Citrus Growers Matters
1. They Preserve Florida’s Citrus Heritage
Small citrus farms have been a part of Florida’s landscape for over a century, often run by families for multiple generations. By supporting them, consumers help sustain the traditions and knowledge that define Florida’s citrus industry.
2. They Offer Higher Quality and Freshness
Unlike mass-produced citrus that may sit in storage for weeks, small growers harvest at peak ripeness and ship directly to customers. This means sweeter, juicier fruit that hasn’t been coated in preservatives or wax.
3. They Face Increasing Challenges
The Florida citrus industry has been battling citrus greening disease, hurricanes, and rising land costs. Small farmers, lacking the resources of large corporations, struggle to survive these challenges. By purchasing directly from them, consumers provide much-needed support to keep their groves thriving.
4. They Strengthen Local Economies
Buying from local citrus farmers keeps money within Florida’s communities. These growers often employ local workers and contribute to small-town economies, unlike large citrus conglomerates that prioritize mass distribution.
How Small Citrus Growers Sustain Florida’s Citrus Industry
1. Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices
Many small growers prioritize sustainability, using eco-friendly pest control, water conservation techniques, and organic methods to keep their groves healthy for future generations.
2. Diversifying Citrus Products
To combat industry challenges, small growers innovate by creating value-added products like craft citrus juices, jams, marmalades, and specialty fruit blends, allowing them to stay competitive while offering unique, high-quality goods.
3. Educating Consumers
Small growers often engage directly with consumers at markets and farm stores, educating them about the importance of Florida citrus and sustainable agriculture. This connection fosters appreciation for the industry and encourages consumers to support local farmers.
The Best Places to Buy Fresh Florida Citrus Products and Support Small Growers
Florida’s small citrus growers are the heart of the state’s citrus industry, producing high-quality fruit while preserving agricultural traditions. By choosing to buy from local stands, U-pick farms, farmers’ markets, and online citrus retailers, you help sustain these family-run operations and ensure that Florida’s citrus legacy continues to thrive. From enjoying a fresh glass of orange juice or gifting a box of hand-picked fruit, your purchase makes a direct impact on small growers who keep Florida’s citrus industry alive.
Save Florida Citrus Groves Foundation: Donate today to help save the future of the iconic Florida orange