Florida Orange Production Forecast to Drop 23%
Florida's citrus industry is heading into another growing season with a sobering production forecast.
The USDA has released its first citrus estimates for the 2026-27 season, projecting Florida growers will produce just 10 million boxes of oranges. That's a 23 percent decline from last season.
Grapefruit production is forecast at 1.3 million boxes, while tangerines are expected to total 450,000 boxes. Both are also slightly below last season.
The numbers come as Florida citrus growers continue battling citrus greening disease, hurricane damage, and the impacts of last winter's freezes.
But there are also encouraging signs. Industry representatives report healthier trees, improved fruit quality, and higher production per acre in some groves.
Florida Department of Citrus Executive Director Shannon Shepp says, "The tenacity and grit of Florida Citrus growers cannot be overstated."
Shepp also points to ongoing research and opportunities for future investment.
According to the Florida Department of Citrus, the industry contributes six billion dollars to the state's economy.
