With the popularity of honeybell oranges growing all the time it's a good idea to place your order long before they are ready for harvesting and shipment in January. While you may actually be able to order them into late spring, it will depend on how much of a supply still remains from the original harvesting and delivery. Unlike regular oranges that are available throughout the year in from orchards throughout the United States, honeybell oranges are only harvested and ready for delivery in January--in some cases they may be available in December for purchase as holiday gifts.

Not every local orchard will have a supply of honeybell oranges, so you need to check before you make the trip. Most all honeybell oranges grow along Florida's Indian River and the size of the crop may vary from year to year depending on the weather and other conditions. While the growers will take orders throughout the year, they cannot harvest the crops until January which is why it's important for suppliers to place their orders early. Do not be surprised to find a bib in your shipment of honeybell oranges--this fruit is so juicy it is not recommended for eating on the run. The best way to eat honeybell oranges is by peeling them and placing the sections on a plate.

In addition to purchasing honeybell oranges from orchards you can also order them online or through citrus fruit catalogs that often have them available for gift giving. Many people who have never tasted honeybell oranges and receive them as gifts quickly become fans of these sweet and juicy fruit selections. Even those who are on medications that prevent them from eating grapefruit are able to enjoy honeybell oranges in spite of their cross as a grapefruit and tangelo.

Many people prefer to order honeybell oranges early enough to make sure they receive their honeybell oranges while the supply is still abundant. Ordering crates of these delectable and juicy fruits can make wonderful gifts for the holidays. While you may not receive them in time for Christmas, you can certainly give them as late Christmas gifts or in time for birthdays or Easter gift giving. Honeybell oranges make great additions to Easter baskets, a welcome change from candy and other sweets the children usually receive. Add honeybell oranges to a fruit basket for someone in the hospital or confined to home as a welcome change from flower arrangements.