Avocados are one of the most popular superfoods in the world, known for their health benefits and flavour. While they are a popular fruit, they can be tricky to grow. Knowing how to maintain an avocado tree is key to achieving success in this endeavour. There are several key steps to keeping an avocado tree healthy and productive, and first and foremost among these is getting it started off on the right foot.
Choosing the Right Tree
Before planting an avocado tree, it’s important to choose the right type. There are a variety of varieties, with each type suited for a particular climate. If you live in an area that often experiences freezing temperatures, then you should look for one of the cold hardy types, such as ‘Mexicola’, ‘Bacon’ or ‘Murray’. On the other hand, if you’re in a warmer climate, varieties such as ‘Fuerte’, ‘Zutano’ or ‘Hass’ will do better. You may also want to consult with a local nursery specialist or agricultural extension office who can guide you in selecting the right type of tree for your climate.
Location and Planting
Another key element to consider when maintaining avocado trees is their location. Avocado trees prefer full, direct sunlight and thrive in areas with well-draining soil. When planting an avocado tree, you should always try to dig the hole twice as wide as the root ball. You should also backfill the hole with the same soil you have removed from the hole, as well as a generous helping of compost, which will help improve the soil structure and retain moisture. Lastly, you should add a few handfuls of fertilizer around the base of the tree, ensuring that it is evenly distributed.
Watering and Pruning
When it comes to watering, avocado trees should be watered deeply and infrequently. Aim to water your tree every 3 to 5 days during the growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist but not soggy. You may need to water more frequently during periods of extreme heat or drought. Pruning should be done only when necessary – older trees may only need an occasional light pruning to remove dead and diseased branches. Young trees require more careful pruning to encourage an even, healthy shape.
Feeding and Pest Control
Fertilizing is one of the most important aspects of avocado tree maintenance. Avocado trees should be fertilized twice each year – once in early spring, and once in late summer. Choose a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for avocado trees, with a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Additionally, you should also keep an eye out for pests, as they can wreak havoc on your avocado tree. The most common pests include scales, aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with natural or chemical treatments.
Harvesting and Storing
When it comes to harvesting, timing is key. You should let the avocado stay on the tree until it is fully ripe – the skin should be dark and slightly bruised when gently squeezed, with an even dark green colour overall. Once harvested, the fruit should be eaten or stored within 1 or 2 days. A good way to store it is to brush a thin layer of mineral oil on the skin, which will help to keep it from drying out. Additionally, it should be stored at room temperature, out of direct sunlight.
General Care
In addition to the tips outlined above, there are several other general care tips that can help keep your avocado tree healthy. Mulch the root area with compost or other organic materials to help prevent weeds and to improve soil quality. Be sure to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. Lastly, inspect your tree regularly for pests and diseases, which can cause damage if left untreated.
Companion Planting
Companion planting is a great way to protect your avocado tree from pests and provide natural fertilizer to the soil. Some companion planting options to consider include marigolds, geraniums, basil, and sage. These plants will attract beneficial insects and repel pests, while providing nutrients to the soil that can help enrich the avocado tree’s growth. Additionally, they can also produce their own fruit or herbs, which can provide a bonus harvest.
Controlling Root Invasives
The last key aspect to consider when maintaining an avocado tree is root invasives. These are plants like vines, which can quickly take over a tree and choke its life force. If you spot any invasives growing on or near an avocado tree, you should act quickly to remove them. Pulling them up by hand is often the best and safest way to deal with them, although you may also use chemical treatments for heavier infestations. Additionally, consider planting a combination of tall-growing trees and grasses around the avocado tree to prevent other root invasives from reaching it.
Using Mulch
Mulch is another great tool for protecting an avocado tree. Not only does it provide nutrients to the soil, but it also helps keep the tree’s roots cool and conserves soil moisture. Make sure to spread a generous layer of organic mulch a few inches away from the tree’s trunk, and keep it 3 to 4 inches thick. This will help to prevent weeds and keep the tree’s roots insulated, while supplying them with the necessary vitamins and minerals to stimulate growth.
Protect From Cold
In areas with cooler climates, it’s essential to protect an avocado tree from cold temperatures. Cold can damage or even kill an avocado tree, so it may be necessary to invest in specialised cold protection. This can include providing a shelter for the tree, such as a frost cover, or insulating its roots with a combination of mulch and compost. Additionally, it’s important to choose a species that can handle cold temperatures, as well as to monitor your tree for signs of cold stress, such as yellowing leaves.
How To Maintain an Avocado Tree for Years to Come
Maintaining an avocado tree can be a great way to enjoy delicious, healthy fruit for years to come. Be sure to select the right variety for your climate, and plant it in the right location with well-draining soil. Water and fertilize regularly, and prune as necessary. Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and use companion planting and mulching to prevent them. Finally, protect your tree from cold temperatures, and with a little care and attention, you can have a beautiful, productive avocado tree in no time.
