Producer
Buck Brand Organic Citrus (CA)
Contact: Lisle and Mary Lou Babcock
City: Terra Bella, CA, 93270
Website: buckbrandcitrus.com
About Us
Buck Brand Organic Citrus is grown on 250 acres of hillside property at Deer Creek Heights Ranch in Terra Bella, California. Husband-and-wife team Lisle and Mary Lou Babcock acquired the ranch in the late 1980s and set to expand the farm beyond their most notable variety, the Heirloom Navel, which originated from groves of first-generation, old stock trees dating back over 100 years.
Lisle’s approach to growing citrus was bold and adventurous. Rather than relying on research institutions to guide his planting decisions, he took a hands-on approach. He would research various citrus varieties, plant a few trees to test their viability, and, if successful, expand. His willingness to take risks led to the cultivation of lesser-known varieties like Melogold and Oro Blanco grapefruits, and Finger Limes, which would later become a culinary favorite for their tangy flavor in oysters, cocktails, and desserts. The ranch now grows 40 different citrus varieties, a diverse collection that includes the rare TDE (triple-crossed mandarin) and the unique Lou Lou Navel, a variety grafted from the original heirloom trees. The Lou Lou Navel was named after Lisle’s wife, Mary Lou, who, like the fruit, he mused, is “sweet and smooth.” His passion for superior flavor and his commitment to experimenting with both varieties and growing techniques have established Buck Brand Organic Citrus as a trusted source for heirloom, traditional, and specialty citrus.
Lisle’s approach to growing citrus was bold and adventurous. Rather than relying on research institutions to guide his planting decisions, he took a hands-on approach. He would research various citrus varieties, plant a few trees to test their viability, and, if successful, expand. His willingness to take risks led to the cultivation of lesser-known varieties like Melogold and Oro Blanco grapefruits, and Finger Limes, which would later become a culinary favorite for their tangy flavor in oysters, cocktails, and desserts. The ranch now grows 40 different citrus varieties, a diverse collection that includes the rare TDE (triple-crossed mandarin) and the unique Lou Lou Navel, a variety grafted from the original heirloom trees. The Lou Lou Navel was named after Lisle’s wife, Mary Lou, who, like the fruit, he mused, is “sweet and smooth.” His passion for superior flavor and his commitment to experimenting with both varieties and growing techniques have established Buck Brand Organic Citrus as a trusted source for heirloom, traditional, and specialty citrus.
Practices
A Special Microclimate
The farms hillside location benefits from a unique microclimate that's perfect for citrus growth. With slightly warmer temperatures year-round, the fruit thrives naturally, eliminating the need for wind machines during the colder months, a necessity for many other citrus farms.
Careful Harvesting Practices
Every citrus variety is harvested by hand, ensuring careful handling and attention to detail. Some varieties, like the TDE mandarins, are even harvested into smaller containers to preserve their delicate nature. This hands-on approach reflects their commitment to quality and care.
Preserving Natural Oils and Flavor
Once picked, the citrus is dry-brushed with horsehair brushes and then coated with a natural compound made from the fruit’s own wax. Unlike modern methods that use water, chlorine baths, and added wax, this technique retains the fruit's natural oils and flavor. Their approach ensures the fruit maintains its true, fresh flavor and preserves the perfect balance of sugar—just like you picked it directly from the tree.
The farms hillside location benefits from a unique microclimate that's perfect for citrus growth. With slightly warmer temperatures year-round, the fruit thrives naturally, eliminating the need for wind machines during the colder months, a necessity for many other citrus farms.
Careful Harvesting Practices
Every citrus variety is harvested by hand, ensuring careful handling and attention to detail. Some varieties, like the TDE mandarins, are even harvested into smaller containers to preserve their delicate nature. This hands-on approach reflects their commitment to quality and care.
Preserving Natural Oils and Flavor
Once picked, the citrus is dry-brushed with horsehair brushes and then coated with a natural compound made from the fruit’s own wax. Unlike modern methods that use water, chlorine baths, and added wax, this technique retains the fruit's natural oils and flavor. Their approach ensures the fruit maintains its true, fresh flavor and preserves the perfect balance of sugar—just like you picked it directly from the tree.