A heavy crop of Satsuma mandarins from the Sweet Valley Citrus region is maturing and will begin shipping about two weeks ahead of the 2021 season. “The 2022 crop looks great,” said Kim Jones, current president of Cold Hardy Citrus Association. “Color break has been early, Brix is already testing as high as 11 which indicates exceptionally sweet, flavorful fruit and we predict the volume to be higher than anticipated.”
Jones says the color break has been early and Brix is already testing as high as 11.
Satsumas are an easy-to-peel, seedless medium to large-size mandarin variety. While not always uniform in shape and color (some green tinge is normal), the fruit is always fresh, sweet and flavorful.
The Sweet Valley Citrus region covers a tri-state zone throughout North Florida, South Alabama and South Georgia. These growing areas share unique soil and weather and represent a resurgence of Southern citrus groves. This area was not affected by recent storms, including hurricane Ian, which had more of an impact on groves in Southwestern Florida.
The Sweet Valley Citrus region covers a tri-state zone throughout North Florida, South Alabama and South Georgia.
All Sweet Valley Citrus is grown on local family farms, is tree-ripened and shipped daily from farmer-owned packing facilities. Satsuma labels grown in the area include grower brands such as Southern Sassies, Southern Juicys and Cherokee Jewel. Non-branded packaged and bulk fruit is also available.
“Satsumas are an early winter delight and consumer favorite for the holiday season,” said Mark Clikas, vice president of the Cold Hardy Citrus Association. “We started shipping in early November, with full production available through December and possibly into January.”
The special growing conditions in the Sweet Valley region are perfect for other varieties of citrus too, and Sweet Valley Cara Cara oranges, along with Tango, Kishu and Shiranui mandarins, will ship from November to mid-January as well.
For more information:
Jim Rodman
Cold Hardy Citrus Association
Tel: +1 (305) 586-7235
jim@getmoxxy.com
hello@sweetvalleycitrus.com
https://sweetvalleycitrus.com/