Preparing Alabama Citrus for What’s Next
Alabama citrus growers are heading toward another fall and winter with lessons learned from recent freezes and new disease pressure to manage.
In a new update, Alabama Extension says roughly 100 commercial citrus producers are operating in the state, largely in Mobile and Baldwin counties. Extension horticulture agent Jacob Kelley says unpredictable winter temperatures remain one of their biggest challenges.
Warm spells can push citrus trees toward spring growth too early, leaving developing buds vulnerable when temperatures suddenly drop. Extension says growers who properly used irrigation techniques during the damaging January 2025 snowstorm suffered the least damage.
But cold isn't the only concern. Citrus canker was detected in Baldwin and Mobile counties last year, adding another disease for growers to watch alongside citrus greening.
Extension specialists say sanitation, scouting and freeze-protection strategies remain important as growers prepare for the seasons ahead.
For more on Alabama citrus production, head to https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/farming/peel-into-alabama-citrus-production/
