Citrus season is in full swing on Florida's Treasure Coast! Florida is known for its abundant citrus crops. How much do you know about the citrus industry?
When is citrus season typically in full swing on the Treasure Coast of Florida?
a. June through August
b. April through June
c. November through April
d. Year-round
Citrus season on the Treasure Coast usually hits its peak and is in full swing from late fall to early spring, typically running from November to April.
What unique environmental factors contribute to the excellent quality and flavor of citrus fruits on the Treasure Coast?
a. Abundant Sunshine
b. Sandy Soil
c. Proximity to the Ocean
d. All of the Above
The combination of sandy soils, abundant sunshine, and proximity to the ocean contributes to the distinct flavor of Indian River citrus.
The subtropical climate of the Treasure Coast, characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunlight, provides an ideal environment for citrus cultivation. Citrus trees thrive in these conditions, promoting the development of flavorful fruits.
The region's well-drained sandy soils contribute to optimal root development and nutrient absorption for citrus trees. This type of soil allows for good water drainage, preventing waterlogged conditions that can negatively impact fruit quality.
The Treasure Coast is situated near water sources such as the Indian River providing natural irrigation and maintaining a consistent water supply for citrus groves. Adequate water availability is crucial for the growth and development of citrus fruits.
Florida is the leading producer of oranges in the United States, and a significant portion of these oranges comes from the Treasure Coast.
a. True
b. False
False. In 2021-2022 Florida produced 41.2 million 90-pound boxes during the 2021-2022 season but output dropped to 15.8 million during the 2022-2023 season. Good news is that the USDA predicts Florida growers will produce a 30 percent increase in oranges compared to last season.
And as Treasure Coast lovers we firmly know that Indian River Citrus is by far the best in the land!
Which citrus variety is not grown on the Treasure Coast?
a. Valencia Oranges
b. Honey Tangerines
c. Key Limes
d. Bergamot Oranges
Bergamot Oranges are not typically grown on the Treasure Coast. Bergamot oranges are more commonly associated with the Mediterranean region, particularly in southern Italy.
All Florida oranges are naturally bright orange in color.
a. True
b. False
Answer - False: As a subtropical fruit that grows in temperate climates oranges turn orange, but for those that are grown in the tropics their chlorophyll is preserved and they tend to remain green. To get oranges the bright orange we see in stores the orange might be exposed to ethylene gas, coated in wax, and yes – even dyed.
Citrus is native to Florida.
a. True
b. False
Citrus is not native to Florida. Citrus trees were introduced to the region as early as the 16th century by Spanish explorers. However, it wasn't until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that commercial citrus production in Florida started to flourish and groves of oranges and grapefruits became a staple of the economy.
Key limes are the best bet for Key Lime pie because they are:
a. Sweeter than typical grocery store limes
b. Larger than other varieties of lime
c. Tart but not acidic
d. Seedless
Key limes have a distinct flavor. They are tart but not acidic, and are your best bet for a real Key Lime Pie; a typical grocery store lime is larger and more acidic. Key limes are smaller and tend to have more seeds. Unlike other limes, key limes are yellow as they ripe. While they are more tart, they blend perfectly with the sweetness of desserts.
The Indian River Citrus District is a narrow strip of land on the eastern seaboard of Florida that spans six counties. Which of these counties is the only one entirely within its boundaries?
a. Indian River County
b. Martin County
c. St. Lucie County
d. Palm Beach County
The Indian River Citrus District comprises a narrow strip of land on the eastern seaboard of the State of Florida, stretching 200 miles from the Daytona Beach area to West Palm Beach. In fact, it is so narrow that out of the six counties, which make up the district, St. Lucie County is the only one wholly within its boundaries. There are 21 packinghouses, numerous gift fruit shippers, a number of major citrus sales agencies, and several major citrus processing plants located in the district.