Plant City

Town in Hillsborough County, western-central Florida, USA, 32 km/20 mi northeast of Tampa; population (1998 est) 26,100. It is situated in a rich agricultural region, known formerly for cotton, and now specializing in strawberries. The processing and distribution of strawberries, citrus fruits, and market garden produce, are central to Plant City's economy; about 2,600 farms are involved in the production of fruit, and a state-run farmers' market is operated. Lumber and fertilizer are also produced. Tourists are drawn to the town's renovated downtown area and annual strawberry festival, first held in 1930.

Plant City was established on the site of an American Indian village, and developed rapidly after the arrival of the railway in 1884. Plant City was named for Henry Plant and was incorporated in 1885. Its five entries on the national register of historic places include the commercial centre and two residential districts. It is a noted centre for equestrian matters, being home to the Walden Lake Polo Club and the site of the National Paso Fino Horse Association. Plant City is the world headquarters of the International Softball Federation.