Persea americana
TAXONOMY
FamilyLauraceae
GenusPersea
Zone9
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Persea americana, commonly known as the avocado tree, is native to south-central Mexico. It is a member of the Lauraceae family and is known for its fruit, the avocado. The tree thrives in seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 20 meters tall. It is an evergreen tree with a dense, spreading canopy.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Avocado
Avocado Pear
Bacon Avocado
Butter Fruit
Pinkerton Avocado
Laurus persea
Persea americana var. americana
Persea americana var. angustifolia
Persea americana var. drimyfolia
Persea americana var. floccosa
Persea americana var. nubigena
Persea drimyfolia
Persea edulis
Persea floccosa
Persea gigantea
Persea gratissima
Persea gratissima var. drimyfolia
Persea gratissima var. macrophylla
Persea gratissima var. melanocarpa
Persea gratissima var. oblonga
Persea gratissima var. praecox
Persea gratissima var. vulgaris
Persea leiogyna
Persea macrocarpa
Persea nubigena
Persea nubigena var. guatemalensis
Persea paucitriplinervia
Persea persea
Persea praecox
Persea steyermarkii
Persea sylvestris
OVERVIEW
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD5,475
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Avocado trees require bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. They thrive in moderate temperatures and prefer a humid environment. Regular watering is essential, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The tree is best suited for outdoor growth in tropical or subtropical climates.Harvest
Avocado trees (Persea americana) typically take about 10 to 15 years to bear fruit if grown from seed, but grafted trees can produce fruit in as little as 3 to 4 years. Harvesting avocados requires careful timing; the fruit does not ripen on the tree and must be picked when mature. The best time to harvest is when the fruit reaches full size and changes color slightly, depending on the variety. To harvest, gently twist or cut the fruit from the stem, ensuring not to damage the tree or the fruit. Post-harvest, avocados should be stored at room temperature to ripen fully before consumption.Soil
Avocado trees prefer well-draining loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the tree's nutrient needs. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 6-4-6. Fertilize the tree every 2-3 months during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Young avocado trees can be repotted every 1-2 years to provide fresh soil and more space for root growth. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins. Ensure the new pot has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.Propagation
Avocado trees can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seed propagation involves planting the seed in a well-draining soil mix and keeping it moist until it germinates. Cuttings can be taken from healthy branches and rooted in a suitable growing medium.Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the avocado tree. Prune in the late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning encourages better air circulation and light penetration.Toxicity
Avocado trees are generally non-toxic to humans and pets. However, the leaves, bark, and seeds contain persin, which can be toxic to some animals, such as birds and livestock, if consumed in large quantities.Additional
Avocado trees can be sensitive to salt, so avoid using saline water for irrigation. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain soil moisture and regulate soil temperature. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases is recommended to ensure the tree's health.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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