A delicious, aromatic avocado offers its own unique flavor to a variety of dishes, making it an excellent choice of fruit to grow in your own backyard. Avocado trees can make excellent additions to gardens throughout Virginia.
The first thing to keep in mind when deciding to add an avocado tree to your garden is the climate in which it will be grown. Avocado trees thrive in warm, dry climates, and therefore Virginia can prove to be a challenging spot for growing avocados. In the Northern region of the state, the climate is too cold for most varietals to survive, though there have been some success stories with the hardier Hass variety in some more protected areas. In the southern regions of Virginia, the climate is warmer and more favorable for avocado growth.
For those living in areas having the right climate, the next step is deciding when to plant the tree. The best time to plant an avocado tree is in the late Spring, when the weather is consistently warm. Prepare the soil before planting, as avocado trees require well-draining soil to thrive. When planting, make sure to select a sunny spot with at least 8 hours of full sun per day. Newly planted trees should be pruned into a desirable shape.
Once the tree is planted, it is essential to water deeply and consistently. It is recommended to water at least once a week, though this may vary depending on the soil, weather, and other factors. When watering, saturate the ground thoroughly and wait for the surface of the soil to dry before repeating. Established plants should be fertilized every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
For those growing their tree in Virginia, it is important to remember that avocados are susceptible to frost and freeze injury. This means it will be necessary to protect the plant from extreme winter temperatures. The tree must also be protected from the persistent winds that can come with the coastal regions. wrapping the tree with burlap can help to protect the foliage and tender bark.
Though avocado trees can be temperamental and challenging to grow in Virginia, the rich, creamy fruit they provide can make the effort worthwhile. With the right climate and plenty of care, avocado trees can make excellent additions to any Virginia garden.
Hass Avocado Trees
The Hass avocado tree is the most popular variety of avocado grown in the entire world, and it is most often recommended for those looking to grow their tree in Virginia. As mentioned, the Hass variety is hardier than most and is more likely to survive in the colder northern region. When cared for properly, the Hass avocado tree can produce up to 68 lbs of delicious fruit each year.
The Hass tree is also known for its quick growth, typically reaching around 16-20 ft with a spread of 8-10 ft. The wrinkly, blackish-purplish fruit of the Hass is produced within the first year when proper care is taken. To ensure the best yield, it is important to prune the tree regularly to promote air circulation and the formation of strong internal branching.
These trees also require special handling during certain seasons. The Hass tree, despite its hardiness, is still susceptible to frost and cold weather, so it is important to take precautions during the winter and monitor the soil temperature closely. Additionally, pruning may be necessary once or twice a year to promote foliage health and fruit production.
Hass avocado trees can be purchased from a variety of online retailers, offering ease of access to individuals in the Virginia area as well as other cold climates. With proper fertilizing and consistent care, the Hass tree can be a great addition to any Virginia garden.
Cold Tolerance
Though avocados generally thrive in warm and dry climates, there are a few varieties that can tolerate cold temperatures better than others. For those growing an avocado tree in the northern regions of Virginia, some of the hardier varieties that may survive include the Hass, Reed, and Sharwill avocados. Additionally, a few southern varieties like the Lila and Wurtz may also be able to survive further north than originally expected.
The northern avocados may also be grown as container trees, allowing them to be brought inside during times of extreme
