Oranges

History Oranges were probably domesticated in China, where their cultivation is attested as early as 4,000 years ago. Oranges are members of the citrus family. There are two species of oranges: the familiar sweet orange and the bitter orange, also called Seville orange or sour orange. Popular varieties of sweet orange include Valencia (the juice orange of retail food stores), Washington navel and blood orange. The blood orange has crimson flesh, juice, and rind and a sweet perfumed flavor. Christopher Columbus introduced the bitter orange to the New World during his second voyage in 1493. Other colonists later introduced the sweet orange. Source: Kids Cook Farm-Fresh Food, California Department of Education Oranges Farmers The LoBue Bros The LoBue Bros., Inc. story begins in 1934 with Philip LoBue, an Italian immigrant More... Johnston Farms Johnston Farms has been growing citrus in Kern County since the 1960s. More... Season, Ripeness and Storage State Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Arizona                         California                         In-Season   Season Navel and Valencia oranges are available in California and Arizona from March through winter. Ripeness When choosing oranges, look for weighty, firm fruits with smooth, thin, shiny skin. Storage Oranges should be stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.