Ask a Master Gardener: Protecting Alabama’s Citrus: Why Quarantines Matter

Certified Citrus Plant Tag by Jacob Kelley

By: Jacob Kelley, Regional Extension Agent, jtk0016@auburn.edu, www.mobilecountymastergardeners.org 

Citrus quarantine laws are a vital part of life for states along the Gulf of Mexico, including Alabama. These regulations are designed to protect both commercial growers and homeowners from devastating pests and diseases that threaten citrus trees. In Alabama, where the citrus industry is still growing, these laws are especially important.

Why Quarantines Exist

The primary goal of citrus quarantines is to prevent the spread of serious diseases and pests such as citrus greening (HLB) and the Asian citrus psyllid, Citrus canker, Sweet Orange Scab, and Citrus Black spot.

These diseases can severely damage or kill citrus trees, and once introduced, they are extremely difficult to control. The most common way these threats spread is through the movement of infected plants or plant parts.

What the Quarantines Mean for You

Currently, Baldwin County is under quarantine for four of five major citrus diseases and pests. As a result, no citrus plants, fruit, seeds, or cuttings can be moved out of Baldwin County unless they come from a USDA Certified Clean Citrus Nursery.

Mobile County is under quarantine for three of the five threats (excluding citrus canker), so citrus can be moved into Baldwin County but not into the rest of the state. The rest of Alabama is only quarantined for the Asian citrus psyllid.

Key rules to remember:

Do not move citrus plants across county or state lines unless they are certified clean. Look for the USDA Certified Tag. Do not bring citrus trees from other states, even if purchased online. Do not take your citrus trees with you if you move to a different county or state. Violating these laws can result in fines up to $60,000 and even jail time.

The Challenges of Growing Citrus in Alabama

Alabama citrus growers face a unique set of challenges. The state sits on the edge of a viable citrus-growing region, and unpredictable weather plays a major role in crop outcomes. Late spring freezes, summer droughts, and excessive rainfall can all reduce fruit yield and quality.

Climate change is making things even harder. Warmer winters allow pests to survive and reproduce more, while more intense storms help spread disease. Stressed trees, whether from drought or too much rain, are more vulnerable to infection.

Adding to the difficulty, many local residents grow their own satsuma trees and generously share fruit, which can make it harder for farmers to sell their crops locally. As a result, many producers must look for markets outside the state.

What You Can Do

If you suspect your citrus tree is diseased, contact your local Extension office or Agriculture Inspector immediately. Experts can help diagnose the issue through photos or site visits and recommend steps to protect your tree and others nearby.

If a tree is confirmed to be diseased, it may need to be removed. In such cases, do not replant citrus in the same area for at least three years, or until the site is declared disease-free.

Stay Informed

For the latest quarantine maps, disease updates, and guidelines, visit the Alabama Department of Agriculture & Industries Citrus Survey Program at:🔗 https://agi.alabama.gov/plantprotection/about-the-citrus-survey-program/

For local assistance, contact:

• Mobile County Extension: 251-574-8445

• Baldwin County Extension: 251-937-7176