Limes were predominantly grown in Florida due to the region's unique climate, which was particularly suitable for lime cultivation and not present in other parts of the United States, leading to higher productivity and cost efficiency.
Limes were grown only in Florida prior to the industry decline mainly because Florida has the only climate that could grow limes effectively.
The climate in Florida was highly suitable for lime cultivation, which is why it became a specialized crop area. Specialized crop areas occur where local soil and climate conditions allow farmers to grow certain crops that are very profitable, often because these crops cannot grow well in many other locations. This creates a low supply and high demand situation, potentially leading to higher prices. Climate and disease resistance also play pivotal roles in the success of lime growing in Florida. While there was certainly a demand for limes, Florida's unique climate conditions positioned it as a predominant source prior to the industry decline, unlike regions where climate or diseases hindered profitable lime cultivation.
Florida's specialization in lime cultivation was principally due to its unique climate suitable for lime growth, which was not replicated elsewhere in the United States. Therefore, other regions could not compete with Florida in terms of productivity and cost efficiency for lime production.