History of Gulf Coast Citrus

Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi are not often thought of as citrus producing states. However, citrus has been grown along the coastal regions of these states since the late 19^th century.  The climate along the northern fringe of the Gulf of Mexico from Louisiana to northwestern Florida is suited quite well for production of satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshui Marc.), one of the most cold-hardy commercial citrus species. The climate is cool enough for a suitable amount of acid to remain in the fruit for optimum flavor, and for adequate peel color development. Also, satsumas typically reach optimum eating quality prior to fall freezes along the Gulf Coast. There were once thousands of acres of satsumas planted in this region. Alabama alone had over 20,000 acres in satsuma orchards in 1923. Periodic severe freezes, as well as the occasional hurricane, prevented a citrus industry of this magnitude from remaining viable. Though freeze damage remains the primary limiting factor for citrus production in this region, there is great local interest and a small industry focused on local markets has endured. Satsuma remains the primary citrus grown along the Gulf Coast region, though sweet oranges account for a large portion of citrus sales in Louisiana. Past and present production, including cultivation, freeze protection strategies, pest issues, and marketing of citrus produced along the Gulf Coast, are discussed.