Avocado trees are a popular choice for gardeners and homeowners looking to add a vibrant and delicious addition to their landscapes. The tree, in its mature form, can provide nutritious and tasty fruits, making it a great source of both sustenance and pleasure. But what makes a mature avocado tree different from a juvenile form, and, more importantly, how much does one cost?
A mature avocado tree is typically more than three to five years old. That may seem like a relatively long time, but the investment of time can really pay off in the form of lush foliage and multiple fruit-bearing limbs. At mature size, the trunk of the tree will range from about 10 to 18 inches in diameter and stretch 25 to 30 feet tall. The spread of the canopy will be about the same at 25 to 35 feet, providing plenty of shade. A mature tree will bear fruit, with some types producing as much as 200 pounds of avocados.
The cost of a mature avocado tree is largely dependent on its specific variety. Some varieties, such as the Fuerte, will cost about $40 each, while others, such as the Guatemalan, may range from $30 to $60. Some varieties, like the Zutano, may even cost as much as $100. In addition to the cost of the tree, gardeners and homeowners will also need to factor in additional costs such as soil amendments and fertilizer.
Experts recommend planting a grafted avocado tree from a reputable nursery. Usually, these plants will come with a one- or two-year warranty that provides for replanting if the plants fail to thrive or otherwise fail to flourish. Premium trees may even come with a five-year warranty. Homeowners should also be sure to properly research the climate and preferred growing location to ensure the tree is capable of flourishing in the elements.
Overall, while the cost of a mature avocado tree can be a significant financial investment, the benefits may far outweigh the cost. Avocado trees not only bear delicious and nutritious fruits, but they also help to provide a welcome addition to any landscape. Once the tree is planted and given adequate care, the satisfaction of enjoying its fruits and beauty will certainly far outweigh the initial purchase price.
Harvesting Avocado Fruits
When it comes to harvesting avocado fruits from mature trees, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Avocados don’t ripen on the tree, but rather off of it, so once the fruits reach about two-thirds of their size, you can begin to pick them. Over-ripe fruits should be avoided, as these can turn soft or taste bitter. While high-quality fruits can be hand-picked, the most effective way to harvest a large quantity of fruits from the tree is to use long-handled pruning shears. Appropriately harvested fruits will store nicely in a refrigerator for up to a week, or outside in a cool, shaded area for a couple of days.
Watering Requirements
When caring for a mature avocado tree, proper watering is essential for its health. Ideally, the tree should receive about an inch of water per week during spring and summer when in full growth mode. During winter, when the tree is not actively growing, this amount can be reduced to about ¾ of an inch per week. When irrigating, it is best to use a soaker hose or other slow delivery system so you avoid over-saturating the soil and the surrounding roots.
Fertilization
Fertilization is another important factor to consider when caring for a mature avocado tree. Different varieties have different fertility requirements, but in general, the tree should receive some form of nitrogen-rich fertilizer, organic or inorganic, in the spring and summer. Fertilizer should also be delivered through a slow-release system, as frequent applications may lead to leaf burn as opposed to a healthy, thriving tree.
Pruning
Pruning an avocado tree is a relatively simple process, and proper pruning can help to ensure its health and longevity. The goal of pruning is to provide adequate airflow and light penetration in the canopy of the tree, as this is essential for bearing fruit. Pruned branches also allow for easy access when harvesting fruit. To properly prune the tree, wait until the harvest season is over, then prune out any dead, diseased or broken branches. This can be done with shears or a pruning saw, depending on the size and strength of the branches.
Propagation By Seed
Avocado trees can also be grown from seed, though it is a somewhat time-consuming and unpredictable process. The hard seed should be carefully cracked open, the embryo carefully removed and then planted in a moist potting mix. Proper watering and temperature control can help encourage germination, which can take anywhere from two to eight weeks. The seedling should then be kept indoors until it is large enough to be planted outdoors. This can take anywhere from a few months to years, depending on the variety of avocado selected.
