Finger limes, also known as "citrus caviar," present an alternative for growers in Florida seeking resilient citrus options. The Australian Lime Improvement Program recently highlighted ongoing research and market potential during a Finger Lime Field Day.
Dr. Manjul Dutt, from the University of Florida's Horticultural Sciences Department, leads efforts to introduce finger limes to Florida. These fruits, native to Australia and cultivated in California, show natural resistance to HLB, or citrus greening. This disease, spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, has severely impacted Florida's citrus industry. Finger limes, however, offer a chance for growers to reinvest in citrus production.
Research focuses on breeding finger lime varieties suited to Florida's conditions. Dr. Dutt's team has developed hybrids like the 'UF SunLime,' known for its red pulp. Efforts include creating seedless and cold-tolerant varieties, with high tunnels aiding North Florida growers. Dr. Dutt emphasizes the importance of rootstock selection for plant health and adaptability.
© University of Florida
Post-harvest research aims to optimize storage and handling to extend shelf life. Dr. Tie Lu, also from UF, investigates changes in finger lime cell walls that impact longevity. "Finger limes have delicate pearl-like vesicles that can lose moisture and texture postharvest," Dr. Lu notes.
Since the first field trial in 2012-2013, finger limes have shown promising yields. A mature tree can produce 150 to 200 fruits. Unlike traditional citrus, finger limes are sold individually, allowing for higher profitability. Dr. Angelia Chen, from UF's Food and Resource Economics Department, explores market potential, noting that "servers, chefs, mixologists, and internet food influencers are important 'opinion leaders' showcasing how finger limes can be used in food and drinks."
Challenges remain in post-harvest handling and market introduction. However, events like Finger Lime Field Day facilitate collaboration among researchers, growers, and industry stakeholders. Dr. Dutt reflects, "The main importance of hosting a field day is to increase stakeholder awareness and provide a forum where different research conducted on finger limes can be brought together."
Finger limes may become a sustainable option for Florida's citrus industry. Growers interested in diversification should engage with ongoing research and explore this emerging specialty fruit.
Source: IFAS Blog