I have, Simon. The one I tasted (I've only had one, which is why I hesitated to say anything, since I don't have long term experience with them) had that sweet/acid balace more like a Valencia orange than the Moro's I've had (have a few in the house right now, in fact.) The Moro's were definitely more "winey" tasting, kind of old fashioned, and I do like the taste. The Smith Red I had wasn't as dark red (although they certainly can be), and tasted sweet with more acid bite, like a Valencia. I just ordered a Smith Red Valencia (or Blood, now that the name has actually changed) from Four Winds, too, just this week in fact. I have a Moro in the ground I planted about 4 or 5 months ago, and it hasn't flushed or flowered, yet, so I pinched it back to try to get it to flush out. That was my experience, and I hope we can get enough heat for the Moro to sweeten up in our area. I think the Smith Red will do just fine, since you and I are in "Valencia territory".

Patty S.

Thanks for the info Patty, that makes me feel better about my purchase. The Smith Red Valencia I ordered from FourWinds is pretty small but it is flowering already. I will probably pick up a Moro and also a regular Valencia since I love fresh squeezed orange juice.

My Smith Red just opened it's very first blossom. I don't see yellow pollen at this point. Should I be worried?

Edit: It is self fertile right?