Avocado fact sheet from David’s Exotic Plants

The avocado (Persea gratissima) is originally native to Central America but today is grown widely in tropical and sub-tropical regions. It can, however, be grown in UK, but clearly more for interest than for heavy fruit production. There are many varieties and hybrids. 

Potting

The avocado is a fast-growing plant and will need potting on fairly frequently. However if left to its own devices it will quickly grow too tall for most conservatories and so a wise precaution is to dock the top occasionally, as necessary, so that the side shoots are encouraged. In this way you will get more of an attractive bushy plant rather than a lanky pole!  

Repotting is called for when you see roots coming from the bottom of the pot.

Conditions

Avocados like plenty of light and plenty of warmth.  Keep an eye on the leaves because they give a good indication of when watering is needed.  Water slowly and thoroughly.  Drainage needs to be good.

Compost - multipurpose is adequate. 

Feed the plant regularly during the summer months with a general purpose feed it should thrive quite happily.

The avocado bears both male and female flowers although these tend to open at different times of the day. If there are insects in the conservatory you will very likely find that pollination has occurred and fruits will develop.

Avocados do not tolerate frost. 

Similar factsheets:-

 citrus
bougainvillea
plumeria
mango
acmena
bauhinia
punica pomegranate
lychee
gloriosa

Copyright © 2000-2020
Hints and Things
All Rights Reserved.



No portion of this site may be reproduced or redistributed without prior written permission from Hints and Things. All trademarks & copyrights throughout Hints and Things remain the property of their respective owners.

Hints and Things cannot be held responsible for any information given on this site nor do they necessarily agree with, or endorse, the views given by third parties.