The Story Behind Our Farm

Premium tree-ripened organic fruit since 2008

The California Lime Story

Limes have been grown in the Americas since the early part of the 16th century. They were brought by the Spanish and Portuguese sailors, who relied on them to prevent rickets on their long ocean voyages. Demand by gold miners in the mid1800s created an increased need for the lime in California. At that time the options were only imports. So, the Key-type seeded lime from Mexico or the seedless limes from Tahiti were brought to California. The Tahitian lime is a cross between a lemon and a seeded Mexican lime, aptly name the "Tahitian Lime. This demand for fresh limes in California spurred citrus plantings in California, so that by the 1880's citrus growers were planting more limes than lemons. This trend reversed when growers learned that lemons, unlike limes, could be harvested green and stored for a number of months. As a result, lime production in California plummeted. Fortunately, the variety of seedless limes grown in California today are a variety of the Tahitian seedless lime that T. J Bearrs developed in 1895 at his nursery in Porterville, California. The new "Bearrs" lime, in addition to being seedless and more tolerant to the California dry climate, "has a high acid content and is richer in flavor," than the Tahitian lime, Mr. Bearrs claimed.

This variety is what we at "Limelight Groves" grow organically in the unique soil of an old volcanic caldron in the sub-tropical location on our ranch just west of Temecula, California, in avocado country. Along with the care from Mother Nature's blessings, we believe our limes are a superior product given our locale, microclimate, and cultivation practices. The result is a fresh, tangy, juicy natural flavor that sets them apart. Just like fine wines, our locally grown organic limes are an expression of their terroir and offer you a unique taste experience.

Paraphrased from a Bruce Van Dyke "History of the Lime" found in the book: "A squeeze of Lime" by Linda Peterson. Additional comments made by Bill Vogel.

The Tree-Ripened Difference

Limelight Groves is an organic ranch tucked away in the rolling hills of De Luz, a micro-climate able to produce subtropical fruit. Our mission is to bring you what our founder Bill Vogel calls “good-eatin’ fruit.” Each of our items is tree-ripened, meaning there’s that sweet taste of California sunshine in every bite. We grow the local classics—avocados, limes, grapefruit, tangerines, pummelos—as well as a premium selection of sub-tropical fruits, such as lychee, starfruit, and pitaya.

We’re among the largest growers of organic limes in California and one of only a handful farms on the continental US to produce dessert guava. We’re organic because we believe in natural farming practices, improved soils, natural tree development, and a safe, healthy, tasty experience when you choose our fruit.

Agriculture Is in Our Roots

Bill comes from a long line of North Dakota farmers who homesteaded there in 1896. He has over 40 years of experience working closely with farmers in Mexico and beyond to supply fresh produce buyers with high quality produce and creative solutions to their marketing programs.

In 2000 an avocado ranch in De Luz captured his heart. With the area’s rich terroir and micro-climate where frost is rare, Bill saw the potential for local production of subtropical specialty tree fruit. But what did it mean to be a farmer in the 21st century? Being a good steward of the land, to begin with, and reducing our carbon footprint. He came up with a plan.

Bill decided to cultivate a selection of tree fruit that naturally grows well in the area, along with other specialty items that could do well, such as guava, starfruit, lychee, and pitaya. The farm would also be organic, producing a smaller carbon footprint, limiting chemical use into the environment, and supporting the natural habitat. Add to that the harvest of tree-ripened fruit, the taste we long for, and it's love at first bite.

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contact@limelightgroves.com

(951) 587-6964

43300 Business Park Drive, Suite 212 Temecula, CA 92590

We Commit To Supplying Customized Packed, Great Tasting Fresh Produce Fast.

At Limelight Groves we know that you want to be a conscious leader who can source healthier organic food.

In order to do that, you need an improved way of sourcing organic food with consistency and quality at a great price.

The problem is buying local, tree-ripened, and organic food is challenging. Moreover, keeping up with the information in the organic, local, and fresh produce offerings is difficult.

We believe you need a trusted, consistent supplier that also has access to a network of local farmers that can provide consistent quality produce year-round.

We understand your business and your challenges, and we care about your success. This is why for the past 10 years, we have supported regional organic grocers that demand high-quality California-grown fresh produce.

Agriculture Is In Our Roots

Bill comes from a long line of farmers in the American Upper-Midwest. He has over 40 years of experience working closely with farmers in Mexico and beyond to supply grocery stores with the best tasting, highest quality produce.

In 2000 an avocado ranch in De Luz captured his heart. With the area’s rich terroir and micro-climate where frost is rare, Bill saw the potential for something special. But what did it mean to be a farmer in the 21st century? Being a good steward of the land, to begin with, and reducing our carbon footprint. He came up with a plan.

Bill decided to cultivate a selection of locally grown premium items, otherwise shipped to California from afar. The farm would also be organic, for a smaller footprint and a more flavorful product. Add to that the premium taste of tree-ripened fruit, and it's love at first bite.