Citrus, oranges and various other citrus fruits are found throughout Florida. The state is known for its signature fruit harvest season which occurs during summer months when the weather turns from cold to hot making it ideal temperature conditions for growing these plants in your backyard or on rooftops.
There’s no better way to get your daily dose of Vitamin C than by picking your own oranges right off the tree! Florida is home to some of the best orange groves in the country, so make sure you visit one during your next trip down south. In this list we tell you all about the 5 Best Orange Groves In Florida To Pick Your Own Citrus!
- 5 Best Orange Groves In Florida
- Reasons Why Florida Is the Best Place for Orange Groves?
- Why Should You Visit an Orange Orchard?
- What Is the Best Time to Go Picking?
- Where to Find the Best Oranges?
- How to Pick the Best Oranges?
- What Are the Benefits of Picking Your Own Fruit From a Tree?
- Tips for Picking Your Own Citrus Fruit in Florida
5 Best Orange Groves In Florida
Here are our top five picks for the best orange groves in Florida to pick your own citrus.
1. VoLaSalle Farms
Located at De Leon Springs
The Crump family have been farmers for generations and own VoLaSalle Farms in Florida. They enjoy the natural wildlife, beautiful lake views and proximity to their four-legged friends that live on site at both farms.
Calling ahead is always the best way to ensure that you can pick your favorite fruit at just the time of year!
2. DeSoto Groves
Located at Lake Wales, F
This grove offers more than just oranges – you can also pick grapefruits, tangerines and lemons here! They have a packing house on site where you can buy fresh fruit to take home with you.
3.Dooley Groves
Located at Ruskin
Florida’s Dooley Groves are a must-see for anyone who enjoys the citrus industry. Home to over 10 different varieties of fruit trees, you’ll find yourself in awe at how beautifully their groves have been set up and planned out with perfect precision by master landscapers.
Orange picking in Florida has been a tradition for centuries. It is taken place from 10 am through 4 pm, and can be found the most between November and April when it’s more mild out side than other times during winter months which means less work hours required to get those sweet oranges into your basket!
4. Ridge Island Groves
Located at Haines City Ridge
Ridge Island Groves is a family-owned and operated farm that grows oranges in Florida. The orchard has an excellent tour where you can see everything from harvesting to marketing, all behind the scenes!
Pick your own fresh oranges at the most affordable prices today!
Just $8 per person, you can get one orange or as much weight that fits into your budget. And if it’s not enough then we’ll sell them to you by pound – so grab a bag and fill ‘er up!!
5. Hancock Groves
Located at Dade City
One of the oldest citrus farms in Florida, Hancock Groves has been running for four generations. They grow oranges and lemons as well but their most popular fruit is strawberries which you can find at your local grocery store!
You can find all the best fruits in season at Hancock Groves. You will want to contact them before your visit so that you know about their Facebook page, opening hours and availability of certain produce items for sale.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy this year’s orange harvest!
Reasons Why Florida Is the Best Place for Orange Groves?
There are a couple of reasons why Florida is one of the best places to have orange groves. The sun is a big reason why it’s good for growing oranges and other citrus fruits, but Florida also has a pretty diverse environment overall which includes different types of climates that can produce fruits at various times throughout the year.
The soil is also good for growing oranges, and the fact that it’s a peninsula means that there are plenty of bodies of water around which helps to humidify the air. Florida’s orange groves have been in operation for many years, so farmers have had a lot of time to perfect their techniques and make sure that they’re providing quality fruit to consumers.
Finally, the state has a large population and there is a big demand for citrus fruits, so growers are able to sell their produce at a good price. This all means that if you’re looking for an orange grove to visit, Florida is definitely a place you should consider!
Why Should You Visit an Orange Orchard?
Visiting an orange orchard is a great way to learn more about where your food comes from and how it’s grown. It’s also a lot of fun to get out into the open air and pick your own fruit! Many orchards have playgrounds and other activities for kids, so it can be a family-friendly outing. And of course, picking your own fruit means that you can enjoy the freshest possible oranges.
So if you’re looking for a fun, educational day out, be sure to visit an orange orchard near you!
What Is the Best Time to Go Picking?
Each grove has their own harvesting schedule, so make sure to check the website or give them a call before you go.
In general, most orange groves will start picking in late July or early August. However, the season can vary depending on the weather conditions each year. Be sure to get out there and enjoy this Florida tradition while you can.
Where to Find the Best Oranges?
Again, each grove has their own specialties, so be sure to check the website or give them a call before you go.
However, in general, most oranges grown in Florida are Valencia oranges. These oranges are known for their sweetness and juiciness. So if you’re looking for a delicious orange to eat fresh or use in your favorite recipe, this is the one for you!
How to Pick the Best Oranges?
To pick the best oranges, look for fruit that is firm to the touch and free of any blemishes. You also want to make sure it has a nice orange color with green leaves still attached. Avoid oranges that are soft or have leaves that are brown and wilted.
Once you’ve picked out your perfect oranges, enjoy them fresh off the tree or use them in one of these delicious recipes:
- Orange Julius smoothie
- Citrus salsa
- Orange glazed chicken breasts
- Carrot ginger soup with orange cream swirl
- Orange creamsicle ice cream
What Are the Benefits of Picking Your Own Fruit From a Tree?
There are several benefits of picking your own fruit from a tree. First, it’s just fun to get out into the fresh air and enjoy nature! You also have more control over which fruits you pick since they haven’t been harvested yet. Depending on when you go, there may still be some unripe or green oranges available so if that’s what you’re looking for, picking your own is the best way to go.
Finally, picking your own fruit allows you to enjoy the freshest possible fruit since it’s not sitting on a shelf in a store. So if you’re looking for an enjoyable day out and some delicious oranges, be sure to visit one of Florida’s many orange orchards!
Tips for Picking Your Own Citrus Fruit in Florida
- Each grove has their own rules and regulations, so be sure to check the website or give them a call before you go
- Most groves have an admission fee, so be prepared to pay a few dollars to get in.
- Bring sunscreen, hats and water – it can get hot out there!
- Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Leave your dogs at home – most orchards do not allow pets.
- Be prepared to carry your fruit home with you – most groves do not offer bagging service.
- Most orchards have a minimum purchase requirement, so make sure to bring enough cash with you.
- Call ahead to find out what’s in season and check the grove’s website for hours of operation.
- Have fun! Picking your own fruit is a fun activity the whole family can enjoy.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to have a fun and fruitful day picking your own oranges in Florida!
In conclusion, Florida is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an orange grove to pick from. Each year, the state produces tons of delicious oranges that are perfect for eating fresh or using in your favorite recipes!
And best of all, Florida’s orange groves have been perfected over many years so they offer visitors a high-quality experience with lots of fun activities to participate in. So be sure to check out one of the many orange groves near you when you’re looking for a day trip or weekend getaway! How about visiting an orange grove today?
