Although the history of the citrus industry itself stretches back far in time and outside of Florida, there is nowhere on Earth where the industry holds such a renowned importance. Everybody knows that there is nothing better than a fresh Florida citrus fruit. Take a look at a brief history to better understand how citrus fruits came to account for a multi-billion dollar industry in this sunny Southern state
A Brief History
The first grapefruit grove in Florida was planted in Tampa in 1823. During the 19th century, citrus fruit groves began to grow quickly and spread all over the state of Florida. This was due to Florida’s sandy soil and sub-tropical climate, which are perfect conditions for citrus fruit production. It took about 40 years from the start of the industry before the sale and export of citrus fruit became a part of the viable business sector.
Florida’s annual citrus production was totalling a million boxes annually after the Civil War. Commercial production multiplied by five times by the year 1893. New markets opened up due to the improvements in the nation’s transportation system. The northeastern part of the United States now had access to the Florida citrus fruit trade. Unfortunately the Great Freeze in 1894-5 destroyed many of the Florida citrus groves and dropped production levels severely. In 1895 production was at a lowly 147 000 boxes. Growers moved further south and within 15 years production levels were restored. By 1915 annual production rates had reached 10 million boxes but the success had just begun. By the 1970s Florida was producing over 200 million boxes of citrus fruit annually.
The Industry Today
Today Florida boasts over 11 000 citrus growers responsible for around 620 000 acres of Florida soil. Florida produces more grapefruit alone than any other region in the entire world, and its production of oranges is second only to Brazil. The Florida citrus fruit industry generates about 9.3 billions dolars for the state and is also provides a very large employment sector for the citizens of Florida.
Florida citrus fruits are taken in crates by trucks to the 50-plus packing houses and 15-plus processing plants in the state. Fresh fruit and byproducts like fruit juices are also shipped or exported by plane to other markets. The citrus industry owes the majority of its success to its domestic market, but exports also play a significant role. The fruit gifts industry is also very strong. The next time you peel a Florida orange or enjoy a refreshing glass of Florida grapefruit juice, know that you are sampling the best of leading citrus industries.
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Pittman & Davis is a leading fresh fruit gift shipper, providing texas citrus, including ruby red grapefruit, oranges, fresh citrus, and baked goods. Visit http://www.pittmandavis.com for more information.
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