Sugar sand, turquoise waters and abundant sunshine are all part of Florida’s allure. But venture inland, where citrus groves perfume the air with their blossoms, and you’ll discover a sweeter side of the Sunshine State.

Florida’s citrus story dates back to the 1500s, when Spanish settlers planted the first orange trees near St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city. By the late 19th century, Henry Flagler’s railroad revolutionized the industry, transporting the golden fruit from grove to table nationwide. Even devastating freezes in the late 1800s couldn’t deter resilient growers. By 1970, Florida orange juice had become a breakfast staple, with more than 200 million boxes of fruit sold annually.

Today, Florida’s citrus growers—whether first- or fourth-generation—remain the lifeblood of this legacy. Walking the rows, touching the leaves and reading the rhythms of the trees, they bring a hands-on passion to every harvest. The Sunshine State’s unique climate, soil and rainfall create the perfect conditions for producing sweet, juicy fruit including oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, mandarins and more. Some growers even invite visitors into their groves to pick fruit, smell the blossoms and hear firsthand the stories of a tradition deeply rooted in Florida soil.

Share the Sunshine

Winter is the perfect season to share the love of Florida Citrus, and the wide variety of offerings from Florida Citrus Gifts let you share the warmth of Florida groves with loved ones near and far. Filled with your favorite varieties of fruit and local touches like orange blossom honey, artisan jellies or chocolate, these boxes deliver more than flavor—they capture the charm and sunshine of the state. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, marking a milestone, sending a care package or simply brightening someone’s day, Florida Citrus Gifts are as thoughtful as they are delicious.

Sweeten the Menu

Next time you celebrate a loved one, considering gifting a citrus-centric recipe along with a freshly hand-picked basket or box from Florida Citrus Gifts. Aside from being a healthy, versatile present, Florida Citrus is a star in the kitchen, lending its bright flavors to both sweet and savory dishes. Craft an exquisite four-course dinner infused with Florida’s finest citrus. Kick things off with a grapefruit-spiked paloma, then serve a salad of arugula, goat cheese, candied pecans and slices of mandarin. For the main course, try a marinated steak salad with hints of grapefruit, lemon and orange zest. End the evening on a decadent note with a dark chocolate cake kissed with orange juice. Cooking with Florida Citrus isn’t just delicious and fun—it’s a way to create lasting memories, rooted in the Sunshine State.

A Healthy Choice

Feel great about giving the gift of nutrition with every Florida Citrus Gift. Inside their sun-kissed exteriors, Florida oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and mandarins pack a nutritional punch. Loaded with nutrients, they help support immune health, promote heart wellness and even contribute to glowing skin. According to the National Institutes of Health, “Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant (compounds that protect your cells from damage), boosts the immune system and improves iron absorption.” And as the new year rolls on, there’s no better way to fuel your wellness goals than with a vibrant box of fresh Florida Citrus, delivered straight to your door.

Florida Citrus is more than an iconic fruit—it’s a pillar of health, a slice of history, the perfect gift for any occasion and a delicious reminder of the heart and soul of the Sunshine State.

For more gifting inspiration, visit Floridacitrus.org, and to share the beauty and flavor of Florida Citrus Gifts, go to PickFLA.com to select a gift box or basket perfect for sharing with loved ones this season.

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