What about it?

The grapefruit is believed to have originated in the West Indies. These handsome citrus trees grow only in the southern-most United States; commercially they are grown in Florida, Arizona, Hawaii and California.

What is it used for?

Grapefruit is grown for its large fruits that can range in color from white-fleshed to yellow, and even pink or red. In addition to fresh eating, grapefruits are enjoyed in juices and marmalades.

Where does it grow? How do we grow it?

The best climate is determined by the amount of frost and the amount of heat available.

Grapefruit trees will do best in an area where there is full sun, good moisture levels, and excellent drainage. The trees need a good supply of nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Home gardeners protect their grapefruit trees from frost damage by wrapping the trunk or providing some alternative insulation like mounding. Trees must be pruned regularly.

What are its primary problems?

Citrus trees in general are plagued by a variety of pests. These include mites, summer scale, white flies, and melanose, a bark rot.

How do we harvest and store it?