Introduction
Learning how to cut an avocado from a tree is a great way to enjoy healthy, delicious fruit. Avocados are a nutrient-dense, rich source of vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters. But, before you can enjoy your avocado, you have to know how to cut it from the tree. This guide provides instructions for harvesting your avocado with safety and success.
Supplies
The first step to harvesting an avocado is to have the appropriate supplies. You will need: a ladder, long-handled harvesting tools, a pair of pruning shears, felt cloth, and a tarp or bag to carry your avocados. A ladder is essential, as it offers a safe way to reach higher branches on a tall tree. Long-handled harvesting tools allow you to reach a branch and safely cut your avocado. Pruning shears are necessary to sever the stem of the avocado. Felt cloth helps ensure the avocado isn’t damaged during harvesting. Finally, a tarp or bag is needed to transport the avocados away from the tree.
Safety Tips
When harvesting avocados from the tree, it is important to practice safe harvesting techniques. Always make sure you have a firmly-planted ladder and double-check all harnesses and tools before use. Make sure you are wearing closed toe shoes for extra protection. Additionally, when working with a ladder, have another person on the ground to steady the ladder and provide support if needed.
Harvesting Tips
Once you have the right supplies and safety precautions set up, you can begin harvesting your avocados. When harvesting, you want to make sure to use proper techniques that will help ensure your success. Firstly, stand firmly on the ladder, as any sudden movements can knock the ladder off balance. Secondly, use a long-handled harvesting tool to locate a ripe avocado, as this will be easier than grasping for it. Thirdly, wrap the felt cloth around the avocado and twist in the opposite direction until the avocado is gently pulled away from the stem. Fourthly, make sure to cut the stem with the pruning shears and not the fruit itself. Lastly, carefully lower the avocado down to the ground, taking extra precaution not to drop or damage it.
Storage Tips
Once you have harvested your avocado, you will want to store it as quickly as possible. If you are bringing avocados home that day, you should keep them refrigerated to ensure maximum freshness. Otherwise, you can store avocados in a cool, dry place for short periods of time. Never store avocados near other fresh produce. Additionally, wrapping avocados in newspaper can help reduce bruising while they are stored.
Preparation Tips
When you are ready to prepare your avocados, you will want to make sure you follow proper preparation techniques. When cutting into the avocado, first use a sharp knife and cut into the skin. Next, carefully insert the knife into the seed and twist to remove the seed. Then, scoop out the avocado from the skin and enjoy! Additionally, be sure to clean your knife and cutting board with either hot, soapy water or an antibacterial wipe before proceeding with the rest of your recipe.
Health Benefits
Avocados are a great source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are high in dietary fiber and monounsaturated fatty acids, which are thought to help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, avocados are a good source of potassium and magnesium, important minerals for electrolyte balance, muscle function, and a healthy heart. Eating avocados also provides essential vitamins such as folate, vitamin C, and vitamin E.
Conclusion
Harvesting avocados from a tree is a great way to enjoy the freshest avocados year-round with the added benefits of health and satisfaction from harvesting your own produce. With the right supplies, storage tips and preparation techniques, you can easily enjoy the delicious fruits from your own backyard.
