For generations, Florida citrus has been more than a crop. It is a way of life, a symbol of the state, and the livelihood of thousands of growers and families. But over the past two decades, the citrus industry has faced enormous challenges, from citrus greening to hurricanes, freezes, and rising production costs.

Despite those obstacles, something remarkable is happening in Florida’s groves.

New growing techniques and partnerships are giving the industry real hope.

Recently, an article in Citrus Industry highlighted one of these encouraging developments: citrus grown under protective screen structures—known as CUPS (Citrus Under Protective Screen), showed almost no damage after a recent freeze event in Florida. During the cold snap, the screens dramatically reduced wind speeds, helping protect the trees and fruit from damage. According to Dundee Citrus Growers Association, the trees lost some early bloom but experienced zero tree or fruit loss, and new growth quickly returned.

Even more encouraging is what these systems are producing.

While traditional groves in Florida average roughly 75 boxes of fruit per acre, mature CUPS groves are producing 700–800 boxes per acre, demonstrating the potential for a strong and sustainable future for Florida citrus.

These protected systems also help shield trees from the Asian citrus psyllid, the insect responsible for spreading citrus greening disease, which has devastated production across the state.

The result is healthier trees, better fruit, and a renewed sense of optimism.

A Partnership to Support Growers and Deliver Premier Citrus

At Kennesaw, we believe the future of Florida citrus depends on strong partnerships between growers, packers, processors, and customers.

That’s why we are proud to be working alongside Dundee Citrus and Florida growers to support the long-term success of the industry.

Through this partnership:

• Dundee packs and markets premium fresh fruit
• Kennesaw processes citrus for juice and specialty products
• Growers gain reliable outlets for their crops
• Customers receive exceptional Florida citrus products

It’s a collaborative approach designed to strengthen every part of the supply chain.

Our goal is simple: support the growers, protect the groves, and deliver the best citrus possible.

Better for the Fruit, Better for the Environment

The innovations happening in Florida citrus are not only about survival—they are about building a better and more sustainable industry.

Protected growing systems and improved cultivation methods allow growers to:

• Use less water
• Use fewer chemicals
• Apply precise nutrients and irrigation
• Grow higher quality fruit

Controlled environments make it possible to give citrus trees exactly what they need, no more, no less. The result is fruit with exceptional flavor while reducing environmental impact.

That means better citrus for consumers and better stewardship of the land we all depend on.

A Long-Term Commitment

Florida citrus has always been built on perseverance.

Growers plant trees knowing they are investing years into the future. At Kennesaw, we share that same long-term mindset.

Our commitment is to:

• Support Florida growers
• Invest in the future of the groves
• Provide customers with premier Florida citrus
• Build partnerships that last decades, not seasons

By working together with Growers, Dundee Citrus, and industry partners, we believe Florida citrus can not only survive but thrive again.

‍The groves are still here. The people who care about them are still here. And together, we are helping write the next chapter of Florida citrus.

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