Fertilization
Avocado trees require plenty of nutrients to bear fruit effectively. Applying fertilizer just before flowering, which usually happens from October to December, can help the tree hold onto its flowers and boost crop yields. Experts recommend applying a combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in your fertilizer mixture. Additionally, avocado trees need plenty of water and should be watered at least three to five times a week.
Spacing
Appropriate spacing is necessary to ensure that each tree receives an adequate amount of sunlight and air circulation. Avocado trees need full sun to bear fruit. Trees should be spaced at least 10 feet apart to allow the branches ample space to grow. Crowding the branches will hamper their growth and reduce the amount of fruit produced.
Flowering
Avocados are pollinated by bees, so having a bee-friendly environment around the tree is ideal. Once the flowers are pollinated, it can take anywhere from 3 to 5 months for a tree to produce fruit. During the flowering period, the avocado tree might even have multiple sets of blossoms, resulting in the production of multiple varieties of avocados.
Harvesting
Avocado trees usually bear fruit year-round in subtropical climates. They are typically ready for harvest when the fruit becomes firm and dark green or black. An overly ripe avocado can easily be identified by its soft texture. If left on the tree, the fruit will continue to ripen even after it has been harvested.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of proper avocado tree care. It helps to enhance the airflow around the tree and encourage better growth and fruit production. Pruning should be done in the early spring months to remove dead or diseased branches, allowing the tree to bear more fruit.
Temperature
Avocado trees prefer temperatures around 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures drop below these levels, the tree may not be able to bear as much fruit. Additionally, exposure to extreme temperatures can cause unexpected damage, so care must be taken to keep the avocado tree well-protected in temperatures higher than 85 degrees or lower than 70 degrees.
Fertilizing Again
Fertilizing the tree after it has borne fruit is also important to ensure that it remains healthy and produces more fruit in the future. A balanced nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer should be used for a few months after the tree has produced fruit to ensure the tree receives additional nutrients.
Replanting
If the avocado tree has not been bearing much fruit, or is showing signs of distress, replanting may be necessary. Replanting gives the tree a fresh start and can help to revitalize its growth and production of fruit. It’s important to use good soil and ample water, as well as fertilizer, when replanting an avocado tree.
Irrigation
Avocado trees need plenty of water, especially when they are young. It’s important to water them two or three times a week, especially during dry spells. A deep watering of the root zone once a week is ideal for encouraging healthy growth and fruit production.
Homemade Insect Repellents
Avocado trees are susceptible to many pest problems, such as aphids and scale. To help protect the tree, an all-natural insect repellent can be made using garlic, onion, and other ingredients. Spraying the tree with this combination repellent regularly can help repel pests and keep the tree healthy.
Pest Control
In addition to homemade insect repellents, it’s important to regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests and treat them promptly to avoid further damage. If the infestation is too large, it may be necessary to call in a professional pest control company to take care of the problem.
Fruit Cover
Once the tree has produced fruit, it’s important to keep the fruit covered to prevent birds and other animals from eating them. Using a netting or other covering over the harvest will help reduce the amount of fruit lost.
Predators
When planting an avocado tree, it’s important to check for predators such as birds and possums. If the tree is left unprotected, these animals can feast on the fruit, leaving none left for harvesting. It’s best to use bird netting or other methods of predator control to protect the tree.
Stimulation
Dormancy periods in avocado trees can hinder fruit production. To help stimulate the tree and encourage fruit production, some gardeners suggest applying plant stimulants in late winter or early spring. These stimulants help to increase the tree’s metabolism and stimulate growth.
