In California, the fight to keep citrus crops thriving is about to turn serious. HLB, also known as citrus greening, is casting a shadow over the state’s orange-growing industry, echoing the devastating impact it had on Florida, where it wiped out 90% of the orange trees. The Asian citrus psyllid is the unwelcome guest that’s spreading this virus, and farmers like Andy Lyall are on high alert, rallying their communities to treat their crops three times a year to shield them from its grasp.

It’s not just the virus that's causing stress. Legal troubles are looming, too. Evergreen Nursery in North County is facing a financial blow after the state agricultural department decided to destroy nearly $3 million worth of trees that might be infected, based on protocols extending from a nearby positive test. The nursery's CEO, Mark Collins, argues that these state protocols aren’t scientifically sound and adds that complying would be financially crippling.

As the citrus industry battles both pests and regulations, growers are increasingly worried. Without proper help and support, we could soon lose our beloved orange juice to this pesky virus. Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that, because without California’s iconic oranges, breakfast might get a little less sunny.