USDA’s First Outlook of the 2026-2027 Florida Citrus Season

October is a time for ghosts, everything pumpkin spice, late-season hurricanes, and the official start of citrus season in Florida. USDA’s initial crop forecast signals the official kickoff of the season. So, what does the government agency outlook have in store for this year? Let’s check out the numbers.

In the first forecast of the 2026-2027 citrus season, USDA is estimating Florida citrus production at 10 million 90-pound boxes of oranges (down 23% from last season’s total) and 1.3 million 85-pound boxes of grapefruit (down 4% from last season’s total). CLICK HERE to see the entire report.

Relentless pressure from HLB and extreme weather events have taken a huge bite out of the Sunshine State’s citrus output over the years. The latest numbers reflect an unsettling trends for Florida’s signature crop. Despite the challenges, growers and researchers continue to pour efforts into saving the iconic industry.

“The tenacity and grit of Florida Citrus growers cannot be overstated, “says Shannon Shepp, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Citrus. “The faith of a farmer is nothing to mess around with. In partnership with our best-in-class research community, Florida citrus remains a significant economic driver in the state of Florida and well-positioned for future investment.”

USDA plans to release citrus crop estimate updates as the season goes. The next forecast update is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2o27.