Florida’s orange growers are facing another tough year. Climate change and disease have hit the citrus industry hard. The U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts that Florida will produce 90% fewer oranges than it did 30 years ago.
Last year, a significant labor group for growers closed down due to financial problems. Recently, one of the state’s largest orange producers decided to stop growing citrus, citing that it is no longer feasible. This situation highlights the ongoing struggles within the industry.
For over a decade, scientists have fought against citrus greening, a disease that has devastated orange trees across Florida. Although research on genetically modified trees shows some promise, recovery for the citrus industry could still take many years. Michael Rogers from the University of Florida notes, “The disease is moving faster than the science can.”
Kyle Story, a fourth-generation grower from Lake Wales, recalls the turning point for his groves. A cold snap in 2012 significantly impacted production, and since then, the combination of greening disease and storms has made recovery nearly impossible.
Citrus greening disease, primarily spread by insects called psyllids, weakens trees, causing them to produce less fruit. Over time, infected trees may die. Hurricane winds and flooding further complicate matters, damaging trees and drowning roots, respectively.
Recent hurricanes like Irma in 2017 and Ian in 2022 have also wreaked havoc on citrus groves. Matt Joyner, CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, emphasizes that it takes time for groves to return to pre-storm production levels, often involving substantial investment from growers.
To adapt, growers are diversifying their operations and seeking insurance and federal disaster relief. Story highlights various strategies he’s using, like protecting trees from psyllids and regularly testing plants. However, with declining yields, affording these measures becomes increasingly difficult.
Sadly, less land is now used for citrus farming. Between 2012 and 2023, Florida lost more than half of its 950,000 acres zoned for citrus. This decline is concerning, especially with Alico Inc., a major grower, planning to cease citrus production to focus on different crops.
Despite the industry’s challenges, Joyner remains optimistic about smaller growers, who are crucial to the citrus landscape. Florida citrus growers are planting new trees, which is essential for the industry’s future. According to Marisa Zansler, director of economic and market research at the Florida Department of Citrus, these efforts demonstrate resilience and commitment, aiming to revive the joyful legacy of Florida’s citrus production.
Consumers may not be buying as much orange juice due to supply shortages and inflation, but the state remains dedicated to promoting its beloved citrus products. Scientists are also working to tackle the issues head-on, with the potential for new tree varieties that could combat the disease.
Research at the University of Florida has led to a new tree variety that could help control psyllid populations. However, it will take years to see the benefits in the fields. For now, it’s crucial to maintain agricultural land for the future, even if it’s not currently being used for citrus.
Growers like Story are holding on to hope. They recognize the challenges ahead but are prepared to be resourceful and adaptive. “We’re a resilient bunch,” he says. “Each grower has to make their own decisions.” The commitment to Florida’s citrus heritage remains strong.
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