Best U-Pick Florida Orange Groves
Florida is famous for its oranges, and there’s no better way to experience the Sunshine State than by visiting a U-pick orange grove.
From the scent of citrus blossoms to the joy of picking sun-ripened fruit straight from the tree, it’s an adventure for all ages.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, these top U-pick orange groves will give you a taste of Florida’s sweetest treasure.
When is Florida Orange Season?
Florida orange season runs from October to June, with peak times varying by variety.
Early-season oranges, like Hamlin, ripen in late fall, while late-season varieties, such as Valencia, reach their peak in spring.
Different groves cultivate various types of oranges throughout the year, ensuring a steady supply of fresh fruit and extending the citrus celebration.
Varieties of Oranges in Florida to Try!
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most popular orange varieties grown in Florida. We think you should try each one! After tasting different varieties, most everyone ends up with a favorite!
Navel Oranges:
These classic oranges (think of the ones with the easy-to-peel “belly button”) thrive in USDA zones 9-11, can grow up to 30 feet tall, and have dwarf varieties available.
However, growing navel oranges from seed takes a very long time (up to 15 years) to produce fruit, so opt for a grafted tree which will take 3-4 years. Navel season is typically December to May.
Valencia Oranges:
These late-season oranges are prized for their thin rind and vibrant orange color. They do well in zones 9-10, grow up to 25 feet tall, and have dwarf options.
Seedlings take 12-14 years to bear fruit, while grafted trees take 3-4 years. Valencia season runs from March to June.
Hamlin Oranges:
Known for their juicy sweetness, Hamlin oranges prefer zones 9-10 and reach heights of 15-20 feet. While dwarf varieties exist, they’re less common.
Seed-grown Hamlin oranges take 10-12 years to fruit, while grafted trees produce in 3-4 years. Enjoy Hamlin oranges from December to April.
Temple Oranges:
A unique tangy-sweet hybrid, Temple oranges grow in zones 9-10 and reach 10-15 feet tall. Dwarf varieties are available.
Temple oranges are another variety best grown from grafted trees (3-4 years) to avoid the 10-12 year wait from seeds. The season for Temple oranges is December to March.
Top U-Pick Orange Groves in Florida
Showcase of Citrus - Clermont
🕒 Season: November – May
🌳 What You’ll Find: This family-owned farm that is also a fun attraction! They grow over 50 varieties of citrus on a huge 2500 acre estate, and are open to the public for lots of fun! Ideas for fun:
- Monster truck tour adventure
- Feed the farm animals
- Try your luck at gem mining
- Enjoy delicious fresh slushies
- Shop at their Old Time Country Store
Dooley Groves - Ruskin
🕒 Season: December – April
🌳 What You’ll Find: Famous for their sweet Honeybells, Dooley Groves offers one of the best U-pick experiences in Florida. Enjoy fresh-squeezed juice while picking premium citrus straight from the tree.Visit their website Dooley Groves for more information.
Ridge Island Groves - Haines City
🕒 Season: November – April
🌳 What You’ll Find: Located in the heart of Central Florida’s citrus belt, Ridge Island Groves offers a variety of oranges and a farm store stocked with local jams, jellies, and fresh citrus treats. Or order online: Ridge Island Groves
The Dunedin Orange Festival - July
Every July, the Dunedin Orange Festival celebrates Florida’s rich citrus heritage.
Held in Dunedin, Florida, this festival features live music, local food vendors, a craft beer garden, and, of course, plenty of fresh oranges.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Florida’s citrus culture outside of the traditional picking season!
Grow Your Own Oranges
Backyard Bounty: Owning a few citrus trees can bring you fresh oranges year after year. Choose varieties suited to your zone and climate. Opt for grafted trees for faster fruit production (3-4 years) compared to growing from seed (10-14 years). Proper care, including watering, fertilization, and pruning, is essential for healthy trees and bountiful harvests.
Container Citrus: Even without a vast backyard, you can enjoy orange trees on a sunny patio. Select dwarf orange varieties and plant them in large pots with good drainage. Remember to bring the container indoors during cold snaps.
Fascinating Orange Facts
🍊 How many orange varieties grow in Florida?
Florida grows over 30 varieties of oranges, including Valencia, Navel, Hamlin, and Honeybells.
⏳ How long does it take for an orange to grow?
An orange takes about 7 to 15 months to fully mature from bloom to harvest, depending on the variety.
🌱 How long does it take for an orange tree to bear fruit?
From seed, an orange tree takes 5 to 7 years before it starts producing fruit. However, grafted trees (which are commonly used in groves) can bear fruit in 2 to 3 years.
Best Ways to Enjoy Florida Oranges!
Florida orange season is a celebration of flavor and creativity. Here are some ways to savor the sunshine fruit:
- Pick Your Own: Nothing beats the satisfaction of picking and enjoying fresh oranges straight from the grove.
- Fresh-Squeezed Sunshine: There’s no substitute for a glass of homemade orange juice, packed with vitamins and bursting with flavor.
- Orange Creamsicle Dreams: Turn oranges into a delightful frozen treat with homemade orange sherbet.
- Citrusy Cocktails: From a classic screwdriver to a more adventurous orange mojito, Florida oranges add a refreshing twist to your cocktails.
- Culinary Creativity: Zest the rind for fragrant desserts, use orange juice to marinate meats, or add orange segments to salads for a burst of citrusy goodness. Don’t stop there! Get creative with orange peels and create a natural cleaning solution with a refreshing citrus scent.