When Are Oranges in Season? A Guide to Top Varieties

I have a confession: I haven’t eaten an orange in the office or at home for at least a month. Valencia oranges are my go-to variety in the summer, and it’s not their fault—I’ve just been incredibly distracted with the bounty of summer fruit. And now, because I missed my window, I might not get a chance for a little while.

When Are Oranges In Season?

Here in the US, we’re lucky to enjoy fresh, locally grown oranges almost year-round. But the oranges you see in stores and The FruitGuys’ fruit mixes in the summer aren’t the same ones available for snacking in the winter. The juicy Valencia orange is a popular summer variety (usually available March–September). In the winter, the sweet navel orange takes its place (typically in season October–February). Winter also brings other fun varieties like blood oranges and pink-fleshed Cara Caras.

Early fall is a time of transition, when the Valencia orange crop winds down just as winter navels arrive.

Valencias to Navels: Mind the Variety Gap

If we’re lucky, the Valencia and navel crops overlap—but this year, like last year, there’s a bit of a gap. That means Valencia oranges, especially organic ones, are becoming harder to find, and the fresh crop of local navels isn’t quite ready yet. We’re expecting them to ripen up in mid-to-late October.

So, you might see fewer local oranges in your fruit mix and in stores for the next few weeks. Luckily, there are still other yummy citrus items to try while you wait.

Waiting On Navels? Try These Citrus Fruits Instead

While you wait for the winter navel crop, consider snacking on California-grown finger limes or grapefruits. You can look for finger limes from Shanley Farms and grapefruits from Bernard Ranch in The FruitGuys’ office fruit mixes in the Western US. (Here’s an easy way to eat a grapefruit at your desk, no grapefruit spoon required.)

We’re also adding a few of the best citrus fruits from the southern hemisphere to our mixes to help you get your citrus fix, like mandarins and Cara Caras from growers in Australia and South Africa. You can check This Week’s Mixes to see exactly what’s in your region’s boxes right now.

What Season Are Oranges Best?

Valencia and navel oranges are both delicious, and which one is “best” depends on your personal preference. Curious about the difference between a Valencia and a navel? Check out our guide to find out which one speaks to you. Tip: One variety makes a much better glass of orange juice.

Final Thoughts: Orange Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

For me, this gap is just building anticipation for citrus season. In a few months, we’ll be overwhelmed with an avalanche of juicy local citrus fruits, and they’ll taste even sweeter for the wait!