UC Links
- How to grow and pest management: Avocado
- UC Riverside: Avocado Information Home Page
The Basics
When to plant
March–April (after last frost date)
Harvest window
Varies widely depending on variety
Fertilization
Nitrogen throughout the growing season; iron, zinc, and other nutrients may be needed
Annual care overview
- Train young trees to promote lateral growth.
- Trees are susceptible to frost damage; frost-protect plants when overnight lows are forecast to dip below 30°F.
- Avocados are harvested when mature, which will happen before the fruit softens.
More links
- Avocado Production in Home Gardens, University of California, San Diego
Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*
Bacon, Fuerte, Hass, Lamb Hass, Mexicola, Pinkerton
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.