Avocado

Aguacate

Fruit and Nut Pest Management

There is no shortage of consumer appetite for avocados. Frequently incorporated into starters and desserts, demand for avocados has surged in popularity to rival the iconic American apple pie. Meanwhile, production of avocado in the United States is under constant threat from diseases like Laurel wilt (LW) and Phytophthora root rot (PRR), which can devastate [&#8230;]

<figure id="attachment_43995" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-43995" style="width: 443px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" class=" wp-image-43995" src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2024/04/Dr-Jonathan-Crane-at-TREC-Florida-Avocado-Groves-blog-300x240.jpg" alt="" width="443" height="354" /><figcaption id="caption-attachment-43995" class="wp-caption-text">Jonathan Crane inspects the avocado test groves at UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center. Photo courtesy UF/IFAS</figcaption></figure>
There is no shortage of consumer appetite for avocados. Frequently incorporated into starters and desserts, demand for avocados has surged in popularity to rival the iconic American apple pie.
Meanwhile, production of avocado in the United States is under constant threat from diseases like <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topics/rab-lw_disease">Laurel wilt (LW)</a> and <a href="https://agresearchmag.ars.usda.gov/ar/archive/2008/aug/avocados0808.pdf">Phytophthora root rot (PRR)</a>, which can devastate orchards if left unchecked. While extensive research has been conducted, there is still much to learn about how growers make decisions regarding disease management and the economic costs and benefits of various management options.
Recognizing the urgent need for comprehensive insights, University of Florida scientists are collaborating in a groundbreaking <a href="https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6fEn9M00UGmnwXA">multi-state LW and PRR survey initiative</a>. The survey aims to gather critical data on grower decision-making, economic implications, and management strategies. By understanding these dynamics, researchers aim to develop rational and sustainable disease management strategies tailored to each state&#8217;s unique circumstances.
The researchers seek input from avocado growers, industry stakeholders, and research institutions across the U.S.
The multi-state researcher group includes UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of California Riverside, University of California Davis, University of Hawaii and Texas A&amp;M University.
“It is important for all avocado industry members, growers, packers, shippers, etc. participate in the survey to capture their past and present strategies to deal with these two devastating fungal pathogens which threaten avocado production,” said <a href="https://trec.ifas.ufl.edu/people/jonathan-crane/">Jonathan Crane</a>, a UF/IFAS professor of horticultural sciences and Extension tropical fruit specialist stationed at <a href="https://trec.ifas.ufl.edu/">UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center</a> (TREC) in Homestead. “The information garnered from this survey will assist current efforts and inform future efforts at responding to invasive pests that threaten agricultural production.”
The U.S. avocado industry is an economically important crop for multiple states in the southeastern U.S. Most of the avocado production in the U.S. is contributed by California, with Florida and Hawaii following suit. With a total national production of 149,600 tons in 2021, the industry reached a value of $341.9 million, according to the <a href="https://www.agmrc.org/commodities-products/fruits/avocados#:~:text=According%20to%20NASS%2C%20California%20now%20accounts%20for%20the,acres%20in%20production%20stabilized%20at%2051%2C840%20%28NASS%2C%202022%29.">U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service (USDA NAAS)</a>.
LW is an invasive, lethal disease in the southeastern United States spread by a fungus transmitted by the ambrosia beetle. The disease wilts and then browns tree leaves, killing entire trees in only a few weeks.
<img decoding="async" class="wp-image-43999 alignright lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="" width="522" height="610" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/news/files/2024/04/external-symptoms-of-laurel-wilt-disease-explained-257x300.jpg">Detected in Georgia in 2002, laurel wilt’s devastating effects were observed for the first time in a Florida commercial avocado grove in 2012. Little was known about the disease and the ambrosia beetle that transmits it. Since 2003, it has killed millions of native forest trees and has impacted commercial avocado production in South Florida.
PRR induces root decay in avocado trees that leads to tree mortality if not treated. Excessive water intensifies the susceptibility of plants to PRR. While this has not posed a significant issue in South Florida yet thanks to the presence of limestone soils and effective drainage systems. However, a key objective of the Everglades restoration project involves elevating the water table to rejuvenate water flow within Everglades National Park.
The survey will be available until May 31, 2024.
###
By Lourdes Mederos, <a href="mailto:rodriguezl@ufl.edu">rodriguezl@ufl.edu</a>
ABOUT UF/IFAS 
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
<a href="http://www.ifas.ufl.edu">ifas.ufl.edu</a>  |  <a href="https://twitter.com/UF_IFAS">@UF_IFAS</a>
 
WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME 
Feeding a hungry world takes effort. Nearly everything we do comes back to food: from growing it and getting it to consumers, to conserving natural resources and supporting agricultural efforts. Explore all the reasons why at <a href="https://ifas.ufl.edu/food/">ifas.ufl.edu/food</a> or follow <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23FoodIsOurMiddleName&amp;src=typed_query">#FoodIsOurMiddleName</a>.

Jonathan Crane inspects the avocado test groves at UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center. Photo courtesy UF/IFAS
There is no shortage of consumer appetite for avocados. Frequently incorporated into starters and desserts, demand for avocados has surged in popularity to rival the iconic American apple pie.
Meanwhile, production of avocado in the United States is under constant threat from diseases like Laurel wilt (LW) and Phytophthora root rot (PRR), which can devastate orchards if left unchecked. While extensive research has been conducted, there is still much to learn about how growers make decisions regarding disease management and the economic costs and benefits of various management options.
Recognizing the urgent need for comprehensive insights, University of Florida scientists are collaborating in a groundbreaking multi-state LW and PRR survey initiative. The survey aims to gather critical data on grower decision-making, economic implications, and management strategies. By understanding these dynamics, researchers aim to develop rational and sustainable disease management strategies tailored to each state’s unique circumstances.
The researchers seek input from avocado growers, industry stakeholders, and research institutions across the U.S.
The multi-state researcher group includes UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of California Riverside, University of California Davis, University of Hawaii and Texas A&M University.
“It is important for all avocado industry members, growers, packers, shippers, etc. participate in the survey to capture their past and present strategies to deal with these two devastating fungal pathogens which threaten avocado production,” said Jonathan Crane, a UF/IFAS professor of horticultural sciences and Extension tropical fruit specialist stationed at UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) in Homestead. “The information garnered from this survey will assist current efforts and inform future efforts at responding to invasive pests that threaten agricultural production.”
The U.S. avocado industry is an economically important crop for multiple states in the southeastern U.S. Most of the avocado production in the U.S. is contributed by California, with Florida and Hawaii following suit. With a total national production of 149,600 tons in 2021, the industry reached a value of $341.9 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service (USDA NAAS).
LW is an invasive, lethal disease in the southeastern United States spread by a fungus transmitted by the ambrosia beetle. The disease wilts and then browns tree leaves, killing entire trees in only a few weeks.
Detected in Georgia in 2002, laurel wilt’s devastating effects were observed for the first time in a Florida commercial avocado grove in 2012. Little was known about the disease and the ambrosia beetle that transmits it. Since 2003, it has killed millions of native forest trees and has impacted commercial avocado production in South Florida.
PRR induces root decay in avocado trees that leads to tree mortality if not treated. Excessive water intensifies the susceptibility of plants to PRR. While this has not posed a significant issue in South Florida yet thanks to the presence of limestone soils and effective drainage systems. However, a key objective of the Everglades restoration project involves elevating the water table to rejuvenate water flow within Everglades National Park.
The survey will be available until May 31, 2024.
###
By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents. 
ifas.ufl.edu  |  @UF_IFAS
 
WHY FOOD IS OUR MIDDLE NAME
Feeding a hungry world takes effort. Nearly everything we do comes back to food: from growing it and getting it to consumers, to conserving natural resources and supporting agricultural efforts. Explore all the reasons why at ifas.ufl.edu/food or follow #FoodIsOurMiddleName.

There is no shortage of consumer appetite for avocados. Frequently incorporated into starters and desserts, demand for avocados has surged in popularity to rival the iconic American apple pie. Meanwhile, production of avocado in the United States is under constant threat from diseases like Laurel wilt (LW) and Phytophthora root rot (PRR), which can devastate […]

Attention avocado growers: UF/IFAS multi-state survey seeks to find out more about avocado disease management

Valentine&#8217;s Day! A day full of love, hugs, and&#8230; chocolates? Well, this year we&#8217;re giving a twist to the Valentine&#8217;s menu. Instead of the regular heart-shaped candies, how about we fill our plates with foods that are actually good for our hearts? Sounds interesting? Let&#8217;s do this! &#160; Salmon: The Heart’s BFF! Have you ever [&#8230;]

Valentine&#8217;s Day! A day full of love, hugs, and&#8230; chocolates? Well, this year we&#8217;re giving a twist to the Valentine&#8217;s menu. Instead of the regular heart-shaped candies, how about we fill our plates with foods that are actually good for our hearts? Sounds interesting? Let&#8217;s do this!
&nbsp;
<ol>
<li>Salmon: The Heart’s BFF!</li>
</ol>
Have you ever heard of omega-3 fatty acids? Well, they&#8217;re like superheroes for our hearts! And guess where you can find a lot of it? Yep, salmon! Eating salmon can lower the risk of heart disease. Plus, it&#8217;s super tasty! Grilled or baked, it&#8217;s perfect for a romantic dinner. Scientists say that omega-3 fatty acids can decrease the risk of irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure a bit. Cool, right?
&nbsp;
<ol start="2">
<li>Berries: Nature’s Little Candies!</li>
</ol>
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, they&#8217;re not just pretty and yummy. These tiny fruits are packed with things called antioxidants that keep your heart happy! According to Johns Hopkins registered dietitian Kathleen Johnson, berries are a heart-healthy snack choice. A berry salad is a  great choice for dessert to follow after that salmon.
&nbsp;
<ol start="3">
<li>Nuts: A Crunchy Delight!</li>
</ol>
Walnuts, almonds, and so many more. Not only are they a crunchy and fun snack, but they&#8217;re also full of good stuff for our hearts. But remember! Eating them unsalted is the key. Maybe sprinkle some on your salad or have a handful as a snack. Nuts have fiber and vitamin E which help lower bad cholesterol. Cholesterol is like the bad guy for our hearts.
&nbsp;
<ol start="4">
<li>Whole Grains: More Than Just Bread!</li>
</ol>
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics states that whole grains can be a great addition to a heart-healthy diet. They have a load of fiber, which is super good for us. Consider starting your Valentine&#8217;s Day with a warm bowl of oatmeal. Add some berries and nuts to make it even more tasty and healthy.
&nbsp;
<ol start="5">
<li>Avocado: Green, Creamy, and Dreamy!</li>
</ol>
This creamy fruit (yes, it&#8217;s a fruit!) is not just for toast. It&#8217;s full of healthy fats that make our heart dance with joy. Slice it on salads or just have it plain. Delicious! Scientists found that avocados have monounsaturated fats which are heart-healthy fats. They&#8217;re the good guys!
&nbsp;
Remember, the best way to enjoy these foods is when they&#8217;re fresh. Always wash fruits and veggies before eating, and store foods in the fridge if you&#8217;re not eating them right away. Safety first! This Valentine’s Day let&#8217;s celebrate love by loving our hearts. Eat right and stay happy.
Berry-Licious Heart-Healthy Salad for Two! 
Love is in the air, and so is the sweet aroma of fresh berries! This simple yet delicious berry salad is not only eye-catching, but also heart loving. So, let&#8217;s whisk up a perfect Valentine’s treat for you and your loved one!
Ingredients:
<ul>
<li>1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced</li>
<li>1 cup fresh blueberries</li>
<li>1 cup raspberries</li>
<li>1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (optional for a refreshing twist)</li>
<li>1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)</li>
<li>Zest and juice of 1 lemon</li>
</ul>
Instructions:
<ol>
<li>In a mixing bowl, gently toss the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries together.</li>
<li>In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest and juice. If you’re opting for a touch of sweetness, this is the moment to whisk in your honey or maple syrup.</li>
<li>If you&#8217;re using mint (and we recommend you do for that refreshing kick), sprinkle the chopped leaves over your berries.</li>
<li>Drizzle the lemon mixture over the berries and gently toss them to coat.</li>
<li>Divide the salad into two bowls or plates, garnishing with a few whole mint leaves on top, if desired. Pair it with a sparkling water, and you’ve got yourself a heart-healthy, refreshing treat!</li>
</ol>
&nbsp;
This salad doesn&#8217;t just bring in the colors and flavors of love, but also the goodness of antioxidants from the berries. A treat your heart and taste buds will thank you for. Enjoy your berry-licious Valentine&#8217;s Day!
&nbsp;
 Written by Irisvette Lagoa and Elizabeth C. Shephard
 References
 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2022, February 22). Prepare heart healthy foods for your family. eatright.org. <a href="https://www.eatright.org/food/food-preparation/cooking-tips/prepare-heart-healthy-foods-for-your-family">https://www.eatright.org/food/food-preparation/cooking-tips/prepare-heart-healthy-foods-for-your-family</a>
American Heart Association. (2022, June 1). Consuming about 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids a day may lower blood pressure. www.heart.org. <a href="https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/06/01/consuming-about-3-grams-of-omega-3-fatty-acids-a-day-may-lower-blood-pressure">https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/06/01/consuming-about-3-grams-of-omega-3-fatty-acids-a-day-may-lower-blood-pressure</a>
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2023). Berry Good for Your Heart. hopkinsmedicine.org. <a href="https://rb.gy/7aq9q">https://rb.gy/7aq9q</a>
NIH. (2022, April 1). Avocados can support a heart-healthy diet. www.nhlbi.nih.gov. <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2022/avocados-can-support-heart-healthy-diet">https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2022/avocados-can-support-heart-healthy-diet</a>
Pacheco, L. S., Li, Y., Rimm, E. B., Manson, J. E., Sun, Q., Rexrode, K., Hu, F. B., &amp; Guasch‐Ferré, M. (2022). Avocado consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease in US adults. Journal of the American Heart Association, 11(7). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1161/jaha.121.024014">https://doi.org/10.1161/jaha.121.024014</a>

Valentine’s Day! A day full of love, hugs, and… chocolates? Well, this year we’re giving a twist to the Valentine’s menu. Instead of the regular heart-shaped candies, how about we fill our plates with foods that are actually good for our hearts? Sounds interesting? Let’s do this!
 
Salmon: The Heart’s BFF!
Have you ever heard of omega-3 fatty acids? Well, they’re like superheroes for our hearts! And guess where you can find a lot of it? Yep, salmon! Eating salmon can lower the risk of heart disease. Plus, it’s super tasty! Grilled or baked, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner. Scientists say that omega-3 fatty acids can decrease the risk of irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure a bit. Cool, right?
 
Berries: Nature’s Little Candies!
Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, they’re not just pretty and yummy. These tiny fruits are packed with things called antioxidants that keep your heart happy! According to Johns Hopkins registered dietitian Kathleen Johnson, berries are a heart-healthy snack choice. A berry salad is a  great choice for dessert to follow after that salmon.
 
Nuts: A Crunchy Delight!
Walnuts, almonds, and so many more. Not only are they a crunchy and fun snack, but they’re also full of good stuff for our hearts. But remember! Eating them unsalted is the key. Maybe sprinkle some on your salad or have a handful as a snack. Nuts have fiber and vitamin E which help lower bad cholesterol. Cholesterol is like the bad guy for our hearts.
 
Whole Grains: More Than Just Bread!
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics states that whole grains can be a great addition to a heart-healthy diet. They have a load of fiber, which is super good for us. Consider starting your Valentine’s Day with a warm bowl of oatmeal. Add some berries and nuts to make it even more tasty and healthy.
 
Avocado: Green, Creamy, and Dreamy!
This creamy fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!) is not just for toast. It’s full of healthy fats that make our heart dance with joy. Slice it on salads or just have it plain. Delicious! Scientists found that avocados have monounsaturated fats which are heart-healthy fats. They’re the good guys!
 
Remember, the best way to enjoy these foods is when they’re fresh. Always wash fruits and veggies before eating, and store foods in the fridge if you’re not eating them right away. Safety first! This Valentine’s Day let’s celebrate love by loving our hearts. Eat right and stay happy.
Berry-Licious Heart-Healthy Salad for Two! 
Love is in the air, and so is the sweet aroma of fresh berries! This simple yet delicious berry salad is not only eye-catching, but also heart loving. So, let’s whisk up a perfect Valentine’s treat for you and your loved one!
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup raspberries
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (optional for a refreshing twist)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, gently toss the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries together.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest and juice. If you’re opting for a touch of sweetness, this is the moment to whisk in your honey or maple syrup.
If you’re using mint (and we recommend you do for that refreshing kick), sprinkle the chopped leaves over your berries.
Drizzle the lemon mixture over the berries and gently toss them to coat.
Divide the salad into two bowls or plates, garnishing with a few whole mint leaves on top, if desired. Pair it with a sparkling water, and you’ve got yourself a heart-healthy, refreshing treat!
 
This salad doesn’t just bring in the colors and flavors of love, but also the goodness of antioxidants from the berries. A treat your heart and taste buds will thank you for. Enjoy your berry-licious Valentine’s Day!
 
 Written by Irisvette Lagoa and Elizabeth C. Shephard
 References
 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2022, February 22). Prepare heart healthy foods for your family. eatright.org. https://www.eatright.org/food/food-preparation/cooking-tips/prepare-heart-healthy-foods-for-your-family
American Heart Association. (2022, June 1). Consuming about 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids a day may lower blood pressure. www.heart.org. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/06/01/consuming-about-3-grams-of-omega-3-fatty-acids-a-day-may-lower-blood-pressure
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2023). Berry Good for Your Heart. hopkinsmedicine.org. https://rb.gy/7aq9q
NIH. (2022, April 1). Avocados can support a heart-healthy diet. www.nhlbi.nih.gov. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2022/avocados-can-support-heart-healthy-diet
Pacheco, L. S., Li, Y., Rimm, E. B., Manson, J. E., Sun, Q., Rexrode, K., Hu, F. B., & Guasch‐Ferré, M. (2022). Avocado consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease in US adults. Journal of the American Heart Association, 11(7). https://doi.org/10.1161/jaha.121.024014

Valentine’s Day! A day full of love, hugs, and… chocolates? Well, this year we’re giving a twist to the Valentine’s menu. Instead of the regular heart-shaped candies, how about we fill our plates with foods that are actually good for our hearts? Sounds interesting? Let’s do this!   Salmon: The Heart’s BFF! Have you ever […]

Heart-Healthy Foods for Valentine’s Day: Love Your Heart!

Have you ever planted an avocado seed from a fresh fruit? Did you grab a cup and toothpicks to get started? Yes? STOP! Unless you are doing an activity to teach someone about how plants grow from seed, this is NOT the next way to plant an avocado tree. Though, it is really interesting to [&#8230;]

Have you ever planted an avocado seed from a fresh fruit? Did you grab a cup and toothpicks to get started? Yes? STOP! Unless you are doing an activity to teach someone about how plants grow from seed, this is NOT the next way to plant an avocado tree. Though, it is really interesting to see how roots and stems come out of a seed.
<figure id="attachment_2315" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2315" style="width: 190px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" class="wp-image-2315 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="A cup, avocado seed and toothpicks ready for the &#039;traditionally&#039; planting method. " width="190" height="142" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/lakeco/files/2023/06/20210908_183803-300x225.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2315" class="wp-caption-text">While it may be popular to plant avocado seeds this way, it is not the best method if you actually want a tree later.</figcaption></figure>
Avocado trees can grow up to 65 ft tall. These evergreen trees take about seven years to produce fruit from seed. Commercially, most fruit trees are grafted to guarantee the fruit quality. Growing any fruit tree from seed means the quality of fruit will vary from the parent plant. If you have space for the tree, patience for the fruit, and you like the excitement of seeing what the new fruit tastes like; be sure to get the seedling off to the right start.
&nbsp;
<figure id="attachment_2317" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2317" style="width: 215px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="wp-image-2317 lazyload" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" alt="Avocado seed with the pointed end facing up. " width="215" height="161" data-src="https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/lakeco/files/2023/06/20210908_183859-1-300x225.jpg"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-2317" class="wp-caption-text">Clean the avocado seed. Plant is in soil point side down. Wait a few weeks for it to sprout.</figcaption></figure>
After removing the seed from the fruit, wash it off. Place it pointed side down in a pot of soil. Place in the sun and water as needed. In a few weeks, you will see the seed sprouting! In a few months, you can place this in your desired planting location. Planting the tree in the ground early allows for better root and trunk stability as it grows.
Keep an eye out for pest and disease signs. Since this tree is from a seed, rather than grafted; it will not have the same pest and disease resistance that the parent plant did. With proper care, your seed can grow into a healthy tree.
Additional Resources: <a href="https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG213">https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG213</a>

Have you ever planted an avocado seed from a fresh fruit? Did you grab a cup and toothpicks to get started? Yes? STOP! Unless you are doing an activity to teach someone about how plants grow from seed, this is NOT the next way to plant an avocado tree. Though, it is really interesting to see how roots and stems come out of a seed.
While it may be popular to plant avocado seeds this way, it is not the best method if you actually want a tree later.
Avocado trees can grow up to 65 ft tall. These evergreen trees take about seven years to produce fruit from seed. Commercially, most fruit trees are grafted to guarantee the fruit quality. Growing any fruit tree from seed means the quality of fruit will vary from the parent plant. If you have space for the tree, patience for the fruit, and you like the excitement of seeing what the new fruit tastes like; be sure to get the seedling off to the right start.
 
Clean the avocado seed. Plant is in soil point side down. Wait a few weeks for it to sprout.
After removing the seed from the fruit, wash it off. Place it pointed side down in a pot of soil. Place in the sun and water as needed. In a few weeks, you will see the seed sprouting! In a few months, you can place this in your desired planting location. Planting the tree in the ground early allows for better root and trunk stability as it grows.
Keep an eye out for pest and disease signs. Since this tree is from a seed, rather than grafted; it will not have the same pest and disease resistance that the parent plant did. With proper care, your seed can grow into a healthy tree.
Additional Resources: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/MG213

Have you ever planted an avocado seed from a fresh fruit? Did you grab a cup and toothpicks to get started? Yes? STOP! Unless you are doing an activity to teach someone about how plants grow from seed, this is NOT the next way to plant an avocado tree. Though, it is really interesting to […]

Planting an Avocado Seed

Lauraceae

Lauraceae (taxonomic family)

Tropical and Subtropical Fruits

Frutas Tropicales

Subtropical Fruit

Frutas Subtropicales

South Florida Tropicals series

Avocado cultivation in Florida has a history dating back many decades. It is one of the most important economic tree crops in Miami-Dade and Collier counties. Generally, homeowners grow one or two fruit trees, depending upon the size of their residential lots. Although avocado trees do not require much maintenance, there are a few cultivation practices to follow in order to reap the best production experience.

La historia del cultivo del aguacate en Florida data de muchas d&eacute;cadas. Es uno de los cultivos de &aacute;rboles m&aacute;s importante de los condados de Miami-Dade y Collier. Generalmente los propietarios tienen uno o dos &aacute;rboles, dependiendo del tama&ntilde;o de su terreno residencial. Aunque los &aacute;rboles de aguacate no requieren mucho mantenimiento, existen ciertas pr&aacute;cticas agr&iacute;colas a seguir para lograr la mejor cosecha.&nbsp;

Crane, Jonathan H.

"Florida's agricultural industry generates more than $103 billion in annual economic impact and employs more than 500,000 people. Florida's farmers produce nearly 300 commodities, and winter vegetables and citrus consistently lead the national rankings. To meet the needs of this diverse industry, research and extension programs in the areas of fruit and vegetable production, postharvest technology and weed science are delivered on a county, regional and statewide basis using a variety of methods including field days, intensive hands-on training, and distance learning. Excellence in programming facilitates the exchange of information and technology and contributes to the professional development of extension faculty and the agricultural clientele they serve." --- <a href="http://www.hos.ufl.edu/extension-programs">Extension Programs, Horticultural Sciences Department</a>

Horticultural Sciences

<a href="http://trec.ifas.ufl.edu/">Tropical Research and Education Center(TREC)</a> was established in 1929 by an act of the state legislature in what is now Miami-Dade County. Due to the region's humid subtropical climate, TREC is the only state university research center in the continental U.S. focusing on a large number of tropical and subtropical crops. Also, the area's oolitic limestone soil is unique to extreme southern Florida. In addition, the Center addresses water and environmental issues that impact crop production over a shallow aquifer and in proximity to Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Marine Park, Florida Bay and major well fields which provide drinking water to the several million people in neighboring urban areas.

Avocado

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Narrower Topics

Avocado Pest Management

Publications

Avocado Growing in the Florida Home Landscape

Establishment Cost of Avocados in South Florida

Estimates of the Replacement Costs of Commercial and Backyard Avocado Trees in South Florida

Persea americana: Avocado

Related IFAS Blog Posts

Attention avocado growers: UF/IFAS multi-state survey seeks to find out more about avocado disease management

Heart-Healthy Foods for Valentine’s Day: Love Your Heart!

Planting an Avocado Seed

Broader Topics

Lauraceae

Tropical and Subtropical Fruits

Related Experts

Related Units

Horticultural Sciences

Tropical REC

Related Collections

South Florida Tropicals series

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