For more than a century, Lykes Bros. Inc. has adapted to changing markets, evolving technologies, and new opportunities. That tradition continues today through our crop trials program, where we evaluate emerging agricultural products that may complement our existing operations and make productive use of available land and infrastructure.
Our approach is practical and measured. We test new crops under real-world conditions, leverage existing facilities where possible, and gather data before making long-term commitments. This allows us to explore promising alternatives while managing risk responsibly—an approach that has guided the Company since its founding.
Asper bamboo is a non-invasive clumping species that represents a potential land-use alternative for fallow citrus lands and other agricultural sites. Unlike running bamboo varieties, Asper bamboo stays contained and can be managed like a traditional crop.
The crop offers multiple revenue streams: young shoots can be harvested for food, while mature stems are used for wood products, construction materials, and industrial applications. Biochar and other byproducts are also being explored as additional value-added opportunities.
Lykes has successfully established an Asper bamboo plantation on fallow, bedded citrus land. The trial evaluates various planting densities to determine long-term yield performance and identify best-growing practices for our Florida conditions.
Lykes Bros. Inc. is currently conducting a vanilla bean trial in our former citrus nursery—a facility that once supported the expansion of our citrus operations across Florida. Rather than allowing the greenhouse and its irrigation system to sit unused, we repurposed the existing infrastructure to evaluate this specialty crop opportunity in a practical and cost-effective manner.
Now in its second year, the trial includes two varieties: Vanilla planifolia and Vanilla tahitensis, both grown under controlled conditions. Vanilla is traditionally produced in tropical climates and requires careful management, including vine training and hand pollination. Our objective is to determine how these varieties perform in our environment and whether vanilla could become a viable specialty crop within our broader agricultural operations.
As with any new crop, we are taking a measured approach. We continue to monitor plant health, flowering cycles, bean development, and overall production before making any long-term decisions. This effort reflects Lykes’ commitment to making responsible use of existing facilities while thoughtfully evaluating opportunities that strengthen the Company over time.
These trials represent the same spirit of innovation and practical stewardship that has guided Lykes Bros. Inc. for more than a century—testing new ideas carefully, using resources wisely, and always looking ahead to what’s next for Florida agriculture.
