Avocado Trees Need Warmth
Avocado trees are very popular and are used in many dishes and meals in many countries around the world. To have your own avocado tree you have to grow it from the seed of an avocado. Doing so does require some knowledge and preparation to ensure it grows well. Temperature is a key factor when it comes to growing an avocado tree so the right conditions should be ensured. An average temperature of around 20-30°C is the best for growing an avocado tree, however temperatures slightly higher or lower can also be tolerated.
The Right Soil Type
When it comes to planting an avocado tree from the pit, it is very important to ensure that you have the right type of soil. A loam based soil which is well draining is most suitable for an avocado tree. Many garden suppliers will have soils with these properties. It is crucial that this type of soil is used as it is not suitable for an avocado to be planted in heavy clay or in soils with a sand content higher than 40%. Additions such as compost, sand, vermiculite and manure are also recommended.
Planting Instructions
The avocado pit needs to be prepped before planting. Carefully removing the pit from the fruit is the first step and then it needs to be cleaned of any remaining fruit. It is important that the pit is not damaged. Leave the pit to dry in the sun for a day or two. Once it has dried out slightly, make two incisions into the pit with a sharp knife. This allows the roots to emerge once the pit is planted.
The pit should be pushed deep into the soil with the two cuts facing upwards. It should be buried only up to the middle of the pit with the top of the pit exposed to the air. This part should be kept moist and damp with regular watering so that it does not dry out. It is recommended that the area where the avocado tree is planted is kept in a shady area for the first few weeks, as it needs to be protected from direct sunlight.
Caring for the Tree
After the seed has been planted, regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist. The frequency of watering depends on the season and the climate, but during the hotter months the tree will require more frequent watering. A good layer of mulch is recommended for developing the young avocado tree. This reduces the risk of diseases and pests.
It is likely that the first fruit will not emerge for up to 3 years, and it is important to remember that the trees need to be regularly pruned in order to maintain the shape and size. The pruning should also be done when the tree is young, to ensure that the shape is kept in the correct form while it is growing.
Feeding The Tree
Avocado trees are heavy feeders and will require regular feeding with a specialised avocado tree feed, although a standard balanced liquid feed can also be used. This can be done every 3-4 months through the growing season when some fruit is appearing. A high phosphorus and potassium feed is a good choice for the trees in the early stages. The feed should be given through the water as the fruit starts to set.
Harvesting The Fruit
It is important to wait until the fruit has completely ripened before harvesting it. A ripe avocado will have changed from a green to a darker colour and will be quite soft when pressed. An immoderately hard fruit should be avoided when harvesting and should be left on the tree for a few more days for it to ripen.
Once the fruit is ready to be picked, it is best to use a pair of stem clippers and gently cut the stem to remove the fruit. Then the harvested fruit can be stored in a cool and dry place, ready to be eaten or used in many recipes.
Diseases and Pests
All trees are vulnerable to diseases and pests, and avocado trees are no exception. Common diseases such as root rot, anthracnose and verticillium wilt can cause serious damage to the tree, so it’s important to be vigilant. Common pests such as mites, caterpillars and scale insects are also potential threats, and appropriate treatments should be taken as soon as possible should any of these issues arise.
Avoid problems with Climate
It’s important to remember that avocado trees need a subtropical climate. The perennial frost and the temperatures at night below 10°C can cause the tree to suffer damage to its leaves and fruit, therefore a good choice for planting an avocado tree may be a warm, sheltered spot in the garden, where it is protected from strong winds and cold temperatures.
Choose a Variety
When planting an avocado tree it is important to choose the right variety. Different varieties might grow better in your climate, so it is advisable to do some research. Some types of avocado trees are better in hot climates and others in slightly cooler areas. Some varieties of avocado trees will also produce more fruits than others.
Timing is Key
When it comes to planting an avocado tree, a good time to do it is in the late spring. This is when the temperatures are warm and the plants can have time to establish themselves before the winter arrives. This allows the root system to develop before the tree is exposed to the colder temperatures that the winter brings in.
Support System
It is important to provide some support to the avocado tree once it has been planted. It is likely that an appropriate support system will need to be constructed in order to support the tree as it grows. Such a system should be made of materials that are more resistant to decay such as concrete as this will ensure that they will last longer in the elements.
