The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service (USDA NASS) released a citrus crop forecast update on June 12.
Florida’s 2024–25 all-orange forecast climbed 3% to 12 million boxes. That’s an increase of 370,000 boxes since the May forecast of 11.63 million boxes. If the forecast is realized, it will be more than a third less than 2023–24 Florida orange production of 18.06 million boxes.
Most of the orange increase was in the Valencia variety forecast. Valencias climbed 350,000 boxes since May to 7.4 million boxes, representing a 5% increase. The non-Valencia orange forecast rose by 20,000 boxes from 4.58 million boxes to 4.6 million boxes.
“The USDA’s June orange crop forecast of 12 million boxes marks continued improvement in two consecutive months – a step in the right direction toward a brighter future for Florida’s citrus industry in the years to come,” said Matt Joyner, executive vice president and chief executive officer of Florida Citrus Mutual. “Growers continue to persevere despite the impacts of citrus greening and repeated hurricanes that have taken a toll on their crop. But it takes more than sunshine to grow citrus in Florida, Our growers need time and support from the Florida Legislature and Congress to strategically invest in research and innovative solutions to embolden recovery and revitalization efforts. We remain hopeful support is on its way.”
Florida’s all-grapefruit forecast remained unchanged at 1.3 million boxes, compared to 2023–24 production of 1.79 million boxes. The white grapefruit forecast is 140,000 boxes. The red grapefruit forecast is 1.16 million boxes.
Florida’s tangerine and mandarin forecast was unchanged since May at 400,000 boxes, compared to 450,000 boxes produced in 2023–24.
Florida lemon production was unchanged from May at 600,000 boxes.
Citrus production in all other U.S. states was unchanged from the May forecast.
See the full June citrus crop forecast here.
The final USDA citrus forecast for the 2024–25 season will be released on July 11.
Source: USDA NASS