Good quality citrus should be firm, heavy for its size, well colored and reasonably fine textures. Avoid fruit that is light, puffy or spongy, as those lack juice. Soft surface areas that are water-soaked in appearance and may break under slight pressure indicate decay. Also, age or injury may cause fruit to wilt.

Lemons: Avoid lemons that are shriveled or hard-skinned, soft or spongy. High-colored, soft fruit may be old or otherwise undesirable. Most desirable lemons are light yellow with a green tip on the blossom end.

Citrus fruits are highly sensitive to freezing and chilling injury. Avoid placing in direct contact with ice.

Ethylene production for citrus is very low. Sensitivity is medium.

Merchandise citrus gadgets like juicers, spouts, peelers and zesters along with displays. Iced tea and beverage recipes also tie in nicely.

Highlight Australian citrus varieties during the summer.

Highlight specialty, easy-peeling citrus like mandarins and Clementines during the holidays. The small, bulk boxes these varieties come in also make nice holiday gifts.

Lemons can be merchandized with peppers and avocados for salsas and guacamole.

Grapefruit displays can be piled quite high without damaging the fruit.