Background Information
An avocado tree (Persea americana) is a long-living, evergreen tree that produces a delicious, nutrient-packed fruit. Growing an avocado tree is a rewarding and enjoyable experience; you can enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing a plant to maturity while enriching your home with a welcome presence of pleasant foliage and fruits. The avocado tree has long been a favorite among gardeners and fruit-lovers alike, and is easy to begin growing in your home.
Location, Climate & Soil Requirements
Avocado trees must be grown in warm climates between temperatures of 60 and 80 F (16-27 C). This precludes cold-weather areas from being suitable for growing these trees. Additionally, the trees’ roots will not stand up to waterlogged soil, and require good drainage for proper growth, thus making clay soil insufficient. A mixture of compost and loam within a pH range of 6.0 and 6.5 is recommended for satisfactory avocadoes.
Container Planting or Ground Planting
When starting an avocado tree, you should begin with either container planting or ground planting. Container planting is recommended for those who live in regions not appropriate for ground planting or those who want to start small and replant later. When using containers, select terracotta or clay pots, which will absorb and disperse heat better, and use soil that has been sterilized and contains perlite or vermiculite. When planting in the ground, it is best to find an area that is not likely to flood, as the avocado tree has consistent water needs, but dislikes having its roots submerged. This is also a suitable activity to start in a large container as the roots may struggle in the rich soil provided in the ground.
Pollination & Pruning
The avocado tree is self-fertile, meaning that the tree does not require the presence of a second tree for pollination; it is capable of pollinating itself. Pruning should be done often, as the Avocado tree has the potential to reach 40 feet, which may be much larger than desired in many landscaping applications. When pruning, care must be taken to avoid injuring the bark, as this can lead to further issues, such as disease and pests. Remove any branches that are too long and crossing over others, and older, dead wood. This helps to promote healthy, new growth, and allows the remaining branches to better access sunlight and air.
Water Needs & Fertilization
Apart from establishing a suitable environment and pruning, you will need to keep your avocado tree hydrated at all times. The tree needs consistent moisture during the summer, and this must be catered for to ensure optimal growth and fruiting. Additionally, once your avocado tree has reached its reproductive maturity, it may require additional fertilizer for optimal fruit production. Select a fertilizer that is branded for use on avocado trees, and used in conjunction with mulching to further protect the tree from becoming too dry.
Pests & Disease Protection
Pests and diseases can be a major threat to the health and safety of your avocado tree. Proper prevention is an important step in keeping your tree in shape. Pests, like aphids and mealybugs, may infest the tree and should be treated using natural solutions like horticultural oils and soaps. Diseases like canker and fungal pathogens can also present a major problem and should be addressed immediately. Pruning and watering properly can also help reduce the chance of disease.
Harvesting & Storage
Once your avocado tree has reached maturity, you can enjoy the fruits of your labour in the form of delicious avocadoes. Depending on the variety, avocado trees can take anywhere from four to fifteen years to reach maturity. Once ripe, the fruits can be harvested and stored in a cool, dry place until ready for consumption. Enjoy your home-grown avocadoes and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with growing your own tree!
Replanting & Propagation
Avocado trees can last for decades with proper care, but sometimes you may want to move or even replant your avocado tree. If you have container-potted your avocado tree, you can easily replant with relative ease. Simply repot into another suitable container using sterilized soil mixed with perlite or vermiculite to increase drainage. If you have planted an avocado tree in the ground, you can simply dig up the ball of soil and repot it! Additionally, propagating an avocado tree is an exciting and educational activity that can be done through seed or stem cuttings.
Troubleshooting
Though avocado trees are relatively easy to take care of and maintain, there may be occasions where you encounter a problem. These can range from yellowing of leaves to fungal infections. Many issues can be avoided through good practices like avoiding overwatering, proper fertilization and trimming of branches. If your tree still presents issues, there are many helpful guides and websites that can help you get to the bottom of the issue and find a solution.
Conclusion
Raising an avocado tree is a rewarding and enjoyable experience, enriched by the potential of harvesting delicious avocadoes right in your own home. Knowing the right soil, climate and water requirements as well as proper pruning, fertilizing and pest control regimes can help to ensure you have a healthy, productive tree. And, through replanting and careful propagation, you can have an endlessly enjoyable experience, capable of bringing you more satisfaction, produce and nature into your life.
