Avocado is one of the most popular fruits in the world and its popularity is growing steadily. But can it grow without sun? Many people believe that the answer is ‘No, avocado tree needs sun.’ It’s true that avocado needs sun in order to grow, but there are some exceptions.
Avocado, or Persea Americana, is an evergreen tree native to Mexico, Central America, and parts of the Caribbean. It is highly tolerant of droughts and temperatures down to 10°F. Avocado likes temperature that varies from 55°F-95°F for optimum growth. Without sufficient sun, an avocado tree can become weak and vulnerable to pests and fungi. Sun is essential for photosynthesis and nutrients supply, therefore, it needs plenty of direct, full sun. The most productive avocado trees need at least 6-8 hours of sun per day.
When selecting a location for planting an avocado tree, the soil should be loose, moist, and well draining. Planting and fertilizing will also help. To start the growing process, poor soil can be amended with compost and added fertilizer. This will help a tree obtain the best nutrient it needs to grow. However, a tree should not be severely pruned since it needs the branches for foliage to generate enough energy for the tree’s growth.
An avocado tree has a range of benefits which includes providing shade and shelter and adding beauty to any outdoor space. It also produces a delicious, nutrient-rich fruit without needing much care or attention. The fruit contains high levels of healthy fat and antioxidants, and can help reduce inflammation, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
Besides growing it in direct sun, avocado tree can also be grown where sun is limited such as in containers, indoors, or in a greenhouse. Container-grown avocado absorbs heat readily and responds well to a well-balanced fertilizer. They can also benefit from mulching and regular pruning. If growing an indoor avocado tree, it should be placed near a light source at all times. This could be natural light coming through a window or artificial light in the form of fluorescent tubes. Additionally, to make sure the soil holds sufficient moisture, a straw mulch should be placed around the base of the tree. Similarly, when it comes to growing an avocado tree in a greenhouse, it needs to be placed near a window, away from any strong winds, and it needs to be irrigated regularly.
Cultivating Avocado Tree
Learning how to cultivate an avocado tree may seem tricky at first, but with proper care and attention, planting an avocado is possible almost anywhere. The most important factor for growing an avocado tree is selecting a location with enough sunlight and good soil drainage. With ample sunlight and additional fertilizer, an avocado can reach full maturity in a matter of years. After an avocado tree is planted, the tree should be fertilized at regular intervals to promote healthy growth.
Avocado’s unique growing habits does not require any pruning to promote new growth, however, pruning can help to shape the tree into a more aesthetically pleasing form. When pruning, it’s important to not reduce the tree’s foliage too drastically, as it will affect the tree’s ability to photosynthesize and convert the sun’s energy into the necessary nutrients for growth and sustainable productivity.
Furthermore, when it comes to water and nutrition, avocado tree should be watered at a regular interval. Nevertheless, during prolonged dry periods, irrigation will be needed. It is important to keep the soil moist and avoid flooding. A combination of organic and chemical fertilizers can be applied at least twice a year for the best results.
Harvesting Avocado
Harvesting an avocado tree can begin when the fruit begins to turn from green to purplish-black and when it starts to soften to the touch. It is ideal to leave the fruit on the tree for as long as possible to keep the flavor and texture of the fruit, but it can be harvested before it is completely ripe. When harvesting avocado, it’s best to not pull it off the branch, but to gently twist it off instead. Depending on the type of tree and its age, an avocado tree can produce anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred fruits in a single season.
Following a successful harvest, an avocado tree should be inspected for any sort of disease, damage, or the presence of pests. If any of these conditions are present, the tree should be treated accordingly with the help of a qualified arborist. If everything is within normal conditions, the fruits should be stored and consumed as soon as possible.
Preserving Avocado
When preserving an avocado, it’s essential to select mature and ripe fruit as this type will store much better than immature fruits. Avocados can be peeled and stored in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to three days, or until the desired usage date. Additionally, avocados can be frozen in slices to prevent discoloration and to preserve its nutrient content and freshness. When prepping avocados for freezing, slicing them into slices and storing them in a freezer bag is a great option. Lastly, halved avocados can make great molds for baking and serve as the perfect accompaniment for dips and salads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, avocado trees need plenty of sun for optimal growth, but with adequate nutrition, watering, and protection from pests and fungi, an avocado tree can grow in conditions where there is limited direct sunlight. With enough care and attention, an avocado tree should begin to fruit within a few years and sustainably produce delicious, nutrient-rich fruits in no time.
