What to Consider Before Planting More Satsumas in Georgia

Georgia’s citrus production could flood the market in less than three years. By 2024, there is projected to be more than 59 million pounds of citrus ready for harvest, says Jake Price, University of Georgia Extension coordinator for Lowndes County. That is compared to the 8.4 million pounds that is ready for harvest this year.

Price explains there is an average of three fruit per pound. If you multiply the total pounds by three, you get the total number of expected fruit.

So, in three years, an estimated 180 million citrus fruit in Georgia will need a home. While Georgia citrus production continues to grow, interested producers need to pause and consider the ramifications of planting more satsuma mandarins. Satsumas comprise the majority of Georgia citrus.

Growers need to consult buyers and make sure a market is in place to handle more satsumas being planted. An estimated 2,300 of the 2,700 Georgia citrus acres are comprised of satsumas already.

“I would talk to a buyer who you want to buy your fruit and ask them what they want. They will know what they can sell and what they may not be able to sell,” Price said. “You don’t want to plant 20 acres of satsumas and then not have a market for your 20 acres. Everybody else has got a lot and wants to sell them at the same time. If there’s a market for them, that’s a good thing. Just make sure that you’re going to have a market.”

Price reported he spoke with a packinghouse owner who said that the demand looks strong. “There may be plenty of market for this fruit,” Price said. “If I was growing them, I would call one of these guys and see what their thoughts are. They’re talking to the grocery stores and everyone else about how much they want.”

Another factor to consider is the short harvest window, which is about four to five weeks. Satsumas lose quality quickly on the tree after they ripen. They can turn soft and puffy. Growers will need to harvest their fruit in a timely manner and sell at the same time.

Satsuma growers also produce a higher percentage of culls than other citrus. About 95% of culled fruit were culled because of size.

Sponsored Content