The History and Evolution of Florida's Citrus Industry

Florida's citrus industry has a long and storied history that dates back to the late 1800s. Early settlers in Florida, including Henry Morrison Flagler and Hamilton Disston, recognized the potential for citrus cultivation in the state's warm climate and began planting groves of oranges and grapefruits.

In the early years of the industry, most of the citrus grown in Florida was sold as fresh fruit. However, as the industry grew and transportation improved, more and more citrus was processed into juice and canned products.

During the 20th century, Florida's citrus industry continued to expand, driven by a growing population, increased demand for citrus products, and advancements in cultivation and production techniques. The state became the top producer of citrus in the United States, with oranges and grapefruits as the main crops.

However, in recent decades, the industry has faced a number of challenges. These include rising labor costs, competition from other growing regions and imports, and most significantly, the spread of citrus greening disease, which has caused significant damage to groves and reduced yields. Despite these challenges, the industry is still an important part of Florida's economy and continues to innovate and adapt to remain competitive.

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