The Orchard

World Oceans Day — what the sea has to do with your Valencia oranges

World Oceans Day falls on 8 June. Before you think this has nothing to do with a citrus shop, let us explain something: the Albufera of Valencia — the freshwater lake that feeds the rice paddies an...

Meteorological summer and astronomical summer — the difference and how it affects citrus

Meteorological summer starts on 1 June, astronomical summer at the solstice. What the difference is, what happens to orange trees in summer and why September matters.

Natura 2000 — what it is, what it protects in Valencia and what it has to do with citrus

Natura 2000 is the world’s largest network of protected areas. What it is, which sites it protects near Valencia and why sustainable farming helps conserve them.

Bees and citrus — why without them there would be no oranges

Bees pollinate orange trees and are essential for the harvest. Why they are in danger, what they do for citrus and how sustainable farming protects them.

Mandarins and lemons for the immune system — what the science says

Las mandarinas y los limones son verdaderos impulsores naturales de nuestro sistema inmunológico. Incorporar estas frutas a nuestra dieta diaria no solo nos ayuda a mantenernos saludables y llenos ...

Valencia’s huerta — what it is, why it matters and what it has to do with your oranges

Valencia’s huerta is one of Europe’s oldest working agricultural landscapes. Arab irrigation channels, the Water Tribunal and orange groves have shaped this cultural heritage for over a thousand ye...

Spring fatigue — what it is, why it happens and what an orange can do for you

Spring fatigue is temporary tiredness caused by the change of season. What causes it, how long it lasts and why the vitamin C in oranges helps reduce fatigue.

The clock change and summer time — why it exists, what effects it has and what happens to orange trees

Summer time puts clocks forward one hour in March. Why it exists, its health effects, the EU debate and how it affects Valencian farmers.

Spring weather and Valencia oranges: how spring defines the flavour

Spring weather in Valencia defines the flavour of oranges months before the harvest. Temperatures, rain and wind during flowering determine the quality and yield of the season.

Las Fallas de Valencia — what they are, why they burn and what they have to do with oranges

Las Fallas are UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2016. Ephemeral monuments, social satire and purifying fire in a neighbourhood festival that has shaped Valencian identity for centuries.