Avocados have grown significantly in popularity in recent years. Not only for their creamy texture and rich flavour, but for their many purported health benefits. While California avocados have become an increasingly popular variety, Florida avocados remain in somewhat of a niche market. Many people are familiar with buying the California variety already ripe from the grocery store. However, it is the Florida avocado that needs to be picked from the tree, and there are a few considerations when deciding when to do this.
One consideration for deciding when to pick a Florida avocado from the tree is the maturity of the fruit. Florida avocados should be left to reach full maturity on the tree before they are ready to be picked. Generally, Florida avocados usually turn a purplish-brown colour when they are fully mature. However, some varieties do not turn this colour, so it is important to wait until the desired ripeness before harvesting.
It is also important to be aware of the optimal weather conditions for harvesting Florida avocados. For example, harvesting during the summer months when temperatures are higher can cause the avocados’ skin to wrinkle, which can affect their taste and shelf life. On the other hand, harvesting when it is too cold can also adversely affect the quality of the fruits. To ensure optimal results, it is best to harvest in milder weather when the avocados are still firm and slightly green.
Experts also recommend timing harvesting to ensure that the avocados are ready for consumption. If picked too early, the avocados will not be sufficiently ripe and flavoursome. Picking late can also lead to damage and spoilage before the avocados can be sold or consumed. It is important to check the TSS or total soluble solids in the fruit to ensure optimal ripeness. The TSS is a measure of the amount of sugar present in the fruit and should be checked at different times to determine the right time to pick.
When harvesting, people should also take into account the age of the tree and the time of the year. Generally, trees that are three to four years old can produce the best quality fruits. As for the time of year to harvest, the peak season for Florida avocados is from mid-August to mid-December. Even when harvesting in the peak season, it is important to bear in mind temperature, as mentioned earlier.
In addition to weather, it is important to also consider the health of the tree and the avocados being harvested. Avocados should look and feel healthy, with no signs of disease, rot, or pest infestation. The tree should also be healthy and should have an even shape so the fruits can be picked evenly.
Picking Florida avocados can be a tricky process that requires careful timing, knowledge, and skill. Knowing when to pick the fruits, along with the necessary tips and tricks, can give people the confidence and expertise to harvest the best avocados from their very own trees.
Tree Care and Maintenance
Caring for and maintaining a Florida avocado tree is critical for optimal quality and quantity of the harvested fruit. Trees require regular fertilizers, pruning and pest control. Applying fertilizer after the flowering period is important to ensure that the tree has sufficient nutrients to properly form, mature and ripen the avocados. Pruning should also be done regularly to ensure that the tree does not bear too much fruit, which will result in smaller, less flavourful avocados.
Inspecting the tree for signs of disease or pest infestation is also important These pests can cause extensive damage to the tree and the avocados, reducing their quality and quantity. If any pests are found, they should be treated as soon as possible to protect the health of the tree and the avocados.
Finally, checking the soil regularly is also important. The soil should be tested to determine its pH levels and mineral content. This can tell the farmer how to better fertilize the tree and how much water it should be receiving. Regular soil testing can increase the chances of a successful harvest.
Harvesting Tips
Harvesting is often the most difficult and delicate part of the process. Even when the avocados have reached the desired ripeness and the tree is healthy, it can still be a challenge to select and remove the fruit without damaging them.
The first step is to inspect the tree and look for any diseased or damaged fruits. These should be removed and discarded. Then, gently cup the avocado in one hand and give it a gentle twist with the other. Be sure not to twist too hard, or else the skin may tear. If done correctly, the avocado should come free from the tree easily.
It is also important to stay safe when harvesting. Wear long sleeved shirts, pants, close-toed shoes, and gloves when possible. To make harvesting easier, harvest from the ladder or from the ground, instead of from the tree branches. After harvesting, wash the avocados with warm, soapy water and inspect for any damage, such as bruises, cuts, or broken skin.
Finally, storing the avocados correctly is essential to maintain their quality. Place the avocados in a single layer and cover them to protect them from light. They can then be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This will help them retain their flavor and texture while they are being transported and sold.
Marketing and Selling
Having harvested the Florida avocados and stored them correctly, the next step is to decide how to best market and sell them. One option is to contact local grocers or farmers markets and discuss selling the avocados to them. Many local markets are interested in providing locally sourced produce to their customers, so contacting local grocers or farmers markets is a great way to get started.
The other option is to create an online presence, such as a website or a social media page. Utilizing websites such as Instagram or Facebook can be a powerful tool for marketing and selling Florida avocados. Images of the harvest, as well as descriptions of the product, can help to build an audience and generate sales.
It is also important to ensure that the avocados are delivered fresh and in good condition. Packaging and shipping the avocados correctly is essential to ensure that the avocados arrive in prime condition. Reusable boxes are the best option, and they should be properly insulated with bubble wrap and cold packs to keep them cool. Furthermore, delivery should be made as soon as possible to reduce the risk of spoila
Safety and Regulations
Finally, safety and regulations should also be taken into consideration when harvesting, storing and selling Florida avocados. Adhering to the regulations of the state in which they are harvested is paramount. The regulations will vary depending on the different states, but all will require that the avocados be safe for consumption, and be correctly packaged and labeled.
Additionally, the farmer should ensure that their harvesting equipment is up to date and in safe working condition. Protective gear such as hard hats, safety goggles, long pants, and long sleeved shirts should be worn when harvesting.
Finally, the farmer needs to be aware of their surroundings. Falling avocados or any other objects from the tree can cause serious injury, so keeping an eye out for potential hazards is essential. Furthermore, if the tree is situated near a pond, lake, or other natural water body, the farmer needs to refrain from using chemicals that could potentially contaminate the water.
Conclusion
From determining when to pick the fruit to proper safety precautions and regulations, harvesting Florida avocados can be a tricky process. However, with the right knowledge, skill and experience, it can result in a successful and satisfying harvest. Knowing when and how to harvest, store and sell Florida avocados is essential for optimal results. And with the right information and insight, anyone can become an expert in harvesting Florida avocados.
