Avocado Growing Basics
Avocado trees have been a part of Mexico’s diet for thousands of years and are now grown around the world. The avocado produces a large green fruit with a single seed (or stone) inside, and it is a highly nutritious and delicious food. Growing your own avocado trees can provide a steady supply of fresh produce, as long as you know how to care for them correctly. An important question for any would-be avocado grower is: when does an avocado tree produce fruit?
Pollination and Fruiting
Avocado trees produce fruit only after they have been pollinated. This can occur naturally with the help of bees, but if you are growing a variety of avocado trees in the same area, hand pollination is likely necessary. The trees must have compatible varieties of different genders in order to produce fruit. While one tree will bear the fruit, another tree must be in bloom at the same time to provide the necessary pollen.
Harvesting Time
Once pollinated, it takes an average of 12 months for the avocado tree to produce the fruit. The length of time varies slightly and depends on the variety of avocado and the climate. Generally, the cooler the climate, the longer a tree will take to produce fruit. Fruit can grow all year-round in cooler environments, but in warmer climates, the tree will most likely only produce fruit once or twice a year.
Care of the Tree
When caring for an avocado tree, it is important to give it water regularly and adequately. Water should be abundant during the flowering period to encourage pollination and fruit development. Additionally, pruning is necessary to give the tree a properly shaped canopy that will allow for enough airflow and light to reach the parts of the tree where the fruit is developing.
Pests and Diseases
Unfortunately, pests and diseases can be a problem when caring for an avocado tree. Common avocado pests include scale insects and mites. Diseases can range from fungus and mildew to root rot and canker. Certain varieties of avocado have better disease resistance than others, so be sure to choose a variety that is tailored to your area.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing is an important part of caring for an avocado tree. The tree needs to receive adequate trace elements and macronutrients in order to produce the best possible fruit. Depending on the soils in your area, a specialist will be able to advise you on which type of fertilizer to apply at the recommended intervals.
Harvesting and Storing
Once the fruit is ripe, it can be harvested and stored for up to two weeks. However, it is best to consume the fruit within a week for maximum freshness. Unripe fruits can be stored in a paper bag at room temperature to speed up the ripening process. When the fruit is ready, it can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of recipes.
General Care
General care of an avocado tree will help to ensure that it continues to flourish and produce quality fruit year after year. Regular watering, pruning and pest/disease control are essential, along with providing the tree with adequate nutrients. When these basic needs are met, your avocado tree will produce large, delicious fruit.
Conclusion
Growing an avocado tree can be a rewarding endeavor, as the fruits are delicious, nutritious and highly sought-after. To ensure that you get the best possible yields from your tree, make sure it receives the necessary care and consideration. If you can successfully pollinate the trees and provide them with the necessary nutrients, you will be rewarded with an abundance of tasty fruit in a short amount of time.
