How Long Does it Take an Avocado Tree to Produce Fruit?
Avocado trees are hands down one of the most popular fruit trees all over the world. An avocado, that creamy and somewhat buttery tasting super food, is so sought after it has virtually become a must-have in any healthy diet. Avocados are rich in flavors as well as a variety of essential nutrients and vitamins, making them a key addition to any meal. Thus, more and more people are considering to grow their own avocados.
Growing an avocado tree may not be as complicated as it may seem, but how long does it actually take for the tree to produce fruit?
Estimated Growing Time for Avocado Trees
According to horticulturists, the average estimated growing time for an avocado tree from seed is 3 to 4 years until it produces fruit. This time frame depends on the type of the tree and its conditions. These factors include the overall climate, soil and sunlight it is exposed to, and its pollination.
It’s possible to buy an avocado tree that has already struck and can start bearing fruit earlier. Trees that have been grafted and are sold in nurseries are usually ready to start bearing fruit in 3 years or less. Therefore, if you want to start harvesting your own avocados faster, you should consider buying a grafted tree instead.
It should be noted, however, that even established avocado trees can stop producing fruit for various reasons like lack of pollination, soil diseases, unfavorable weather patterns and more. Therefore, if you notice your avocado tree has not produced fruit for a year or two, it is best to contact a professional for advice.
External Factors Affecting Avocado Tree Growth
The growth of an avocado tree is also significantly affected by external factors. For instance, the quality of water, wind and fertilizer play an essential part in the cultivation of an avocado tree and its fruit.
In terms of water, the tree needs to be watered several times a week, in order to ensure it is getting an adequate amount of water. This is especially true for the central and northern regions of the United States, where weather tends to be drier and the soils more torpid. Wind can also significantly affect the growth of an avocado tree. It is generally accepted that having a moderate amount of wind helps aerate the soil, which can boost the growth of the tree.
Fertilizers, when used in moderation, can also be beneficial in helping an avocado tree grow and bearing fruit. Adding organic compost to the soil or adding fertilizers once every couple of months can help increase their growth.
Nutritional Requirement of an Avocado Tree
An avocado tree amount of the required nutrition depends on the size, age and conditions of the tree. For example, a mature avocado tree needs an average of 40-50 pounds of nitrogen per year. To ensure the tree gets the adequate amounts of nutrients, soil tests of the root zone should be office regularly, and nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium supplement should be added as needed. Additionally, an avocado tree needs calcium and magnesium to increase the size and sweetness of its fruit.
It is recommended that avocado trees receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure optimal growth. Therefore, it is advised to locate the tree in a place where is exposed to adequate light, and trees that are too close together should be moved to provide enough space and circulation of air.
What to Do if avocados Do Not Ripen on the Tree
In some cases, despite the optimal growth conditions, avocados may not ripen on the tree. If this happens, it is best to take the ‘green’ avocados off the tree and allow them to ripen further. You can do this by placing them in a warm, sunny corner of the room or in an area with higher temperature. You can also place the avocados inside a paper bag with a ripe banana or apples to help the ripening process along.
Reliable Avocado Tree Varieties
Reliable and dependable avocado varieties like the Hass, Reed, Fuerte, Pinkerton, Zutano and Bacon are most suitable for backyard groves as they produce high quality fruits that have a good taste and are also easy to blend when making guacamole. When choosing the variety, it is important to consult local growers or local nurseries as they can tell you which one will perform best in your particular climate.
How to Prune an Avocado Tree
Pruning an avocado tree should take place once a year. Pruning helps promote growth of new branches and is essential to maintain the health of the tree. When pruning, look for deadwood, dying leaves, and branches that may be infected with disease. Remember to leave a few of the frilly leaves near the trunk of the tree to ensure proper aeration.
Avocado trees should be pruned back selectively and selectively enough that a large amount of the tree remains for continued growth and fruiting. Always use sharp, clean pruners and make sure to leave at least two-thirds of the foliage intact on the tree to keep it healthy and encourage further fruit production.
Covering an Avocado Tree in Winter
Avocado trees are somewhat sensitive to cold. It is important to provide extra protection during the winter months by covering the tree with a tarp or other materials to keep it warm and dry. The outermost leaves should be cut back so the tree can be covered fully. When done properly, this process can keep the tree safe and be conducive to growth in the coming summer season.
Lack of Pollination in an Avocado Tree
While some avocado varieties can be self-pollinated, others require a different variety to ensure fruiting. If an avocado tree is not getting enough pollen from other trees, it will likely stop bearing fruit. This can be fixed by planting an additional avocado variety close to the one you are growing. It is also important to keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can hinder pollination both on your tree and its surrounding area.
