Raised On Citrus

Times may be changing, but you can still find a classic citrus fruit stand if you know where to look. Several Vero Beach families, all with roots deep in our local citrus industry, are continuing – and even improving upon – the roadside retail outlets that first introduced the nation to the glories of Indian River grapefruit and oranges.

Our first stop is Countryside Citrus which is run by the Banack family. When you pull onto the property, you feel you have stepped back into an old-time citrus destination. There is a tranquil lake, a packinghouse, and a store filled with citrus-themed gifts including juice, fruit and delicious orange and peach soft-serve ice cream. In the fall season, you will find “attractions” that include a corn cannon, rubber duck races, and even a corn maze grown in the form of the Countryside Citrus logo. Part of the purpose of the corn maze, aside from being lots of fun to get lost in, is to teach children about agriculture and the importance of the land.
 

Read the entire article in the March 2014 issue