Citrus Farms in Phoenix
It’s citrus season in Phoenix! Yes, Phoenix (not Florida), and there are some great options for u-pick or pick up. January-March is typically the top months for citrus, but it can extend into December and April. Our in-laws usually have lemons ready on their tree between Christmas and New Year’s!
We recently explored Cotton Lane Citrus near Surprise to pick citrus and had such a fun time! There was plenty of grapefruit and lemons, and we managed to hunt down some yummy oranges before getting caught in a memorable rainstorm. Cotton lent us a wagon to haul our finds, as well as a “basket picker” to reach the treetops. The kids had a great time with this hands-on experience.
So where can you find citrus farms in Phoenix? Here is a list, some offering u-pick and others just pick up. Please contact each business to find what is currently being offered, as well as hours and any requirements like masks. It is citrus season, but availability will vary by farm.
West Valley:
East Valley:
For a little history: did you know that citrus is one of the 5 C’s of Arizona? The other four are cotton, cattle, copper, and climate. Arizona’s citrus industry began in the late 1880’s, when a local farmer planted citrus trees around what is now 60th Street and Indian School Road in Scottsdale. Citrus became a leading cash crop in the 1920’s and 30’s! Today you can find around 8 farms that offer grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, tangelos, and lemons in the Phoenix area.
And of note, there are some great ways for kids to learn about Arizona history right here in Phoenix! We’ve listed our top favorites in this blog post.
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Hagen Farms is open 10am-3pm every Saturday during the season for U-pick ($10 for 10 pounds). A great variety of citrus onsite, as well as Goats and Chickens. This is a family residence, so no restrooms onsite so plan ahead.
Yes, we have Hagen Farms on our list! Good to know it’s worth the visit.
Just fyi, Cotton Lane Citrus is now out of oranges for the 2021 season (they still have grapefruit and lemon).