For more than a century, Lykes Bros. Inc. has cultivated Florida’s agricultural legacy. Today, that pioneering spirit drives our investment in Citrus Under Protective Screen (CUPS)—an innovative approach designed to protect Florida citrus and ensure its future for generations to come.
Citrus greening, also known as Huanglongbing (HLB), poses one of the greatest threats to Florida’s citrus industry. The disease spreads through the Asian citrus psyllid, a tiny insect that can devastate entire groves. CUPS technology offers a promising solution: highly engineered, pest-exclusion structures that shield trees while creating an optimal growing environment.
Within these protective structures, citrus trees thrive under controlled irrigation and precision nutrition programs. By reducing disease pressure and environmental stress, CUPS enables trees to produce premium fruit with exceptional quality—inside and out. The result is improved yield potential and extended tree health, helping ensure productive groves for years to come.
Lykes Bros. Inc. owns two nine-acre CUPS facilities in Polk County, planted with Ray Ruby grapefruit. Dundee Agriculture Services manages these groves using best-in-class horticultural practices, continuous monitoring, and targeted inputs to optimize performance. The fruit is marketed through the Dundee Growers Association under the Rubies™ brand—recognized for its vibrant color, excellent flavor, and consistent eating experience.
Our CUPS program reflects the Company’s broader commitment to responsible land stewardship and agricultural innovation. By combining scientific advancement with more than a century of farming experience, we are helping strengthen Florida’s citrus industry for future generations.
As we continue to learn and expand, our focus remains clear: delivering superior citrus while protecting the natural resources that sustain us. CUPS represents one important piece of that future—and we are proud to put this technology to work right here in Central Florida.
Hal Duncan
VP of Citrus