USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists are actively developing new citrus breeds designed to resist Huanglongbing, commonly known as HLB or citrus greening, the disease that has devastated Florida's citrus industry. The research team is experimenting with varieties that show interesting characteristics from flesh to peel with potential commercial applications.
HLB remains the single biggest threat to domestic U.S. citrus supply. Florida's orange production has collapsed over the past two decades as a direct result, and any viable resistant variety would be a major development for the industry's long-term recovery. This research represents a meaningful step in that direction.
This is a longer-term watch, but buyers sourcing domestic citrus should track where ARS breeding programs stand — commercially viable HLB-resistant trees could eventually change the supply picture for Florida oranges and grapefruit.