Choosing a Location for Avocado Trees

The best way to succeed is to plan before you plant. Let’s discuss location: Do you know where you want to locate your new plant? Avoid many future problems by considering all aspects of the planting spot, such as:

  • Cross-pollination
  • Sun and good soil
  • Check out the surroundings
  • Space wisely

NOTE: This is part 3 in a series of 8 articles. For a complete background on how to grow avocado trees, we recommend starting from the beginning.

Cross Pollination

Avocado trees are self-pollinating, meaning they don’t require another variety in order to produce fruit. However, having a Type A and Type B avocado tree more than doubles the chance of successful pollination and fruit set.

Avocado trees flower in a manner known as synchronous dichogamy, meaning bloom time for male and female flowers is distinct. Type A avocado female flower parts open at the same time as Type B male flower parts, and vice versa.

If avocado trees that are grown in containers bloom while inside, be sure to hand pollinate for greatest success.

Sun and Good Soil

Your tree would love a sunny place with well-drained, fertile soil. But it will be quite satisfied with six to eight hours of sunlight. Good drainage is required to keep your trees “happy.” If your soil has high clay content, use our Coco-Fiber Potting Medium or add one-third peat to the soil at planting time. We do not recommend planting fruit trees in heavy, pure clay soils.

Even if your yard isn’t the most ideal location, take heart. Fruit trees are very adaptable and respond well to fertilizers, so they can get along well even where the soil is nutritionally poor. Just steer clear of sites with extremely heavy soils or very poor drainage.

If planting in containers, quality soil with good drainage is a must. Be sure to choose a container that is twice as big as its original container to give it room to grow.

Surroundings

If you’d like your tree to become a landscaping asset, choose the planting place with this in mind. Imagine it as a full-grown tree and check everything out: Wires overhead? Sidewalk underneath? Does it obstruct something you want to see? Can you keep an eye on it from the house? Will other trees be in the way, allowing for their additional growth in the meantime?

Even a year or two after planting, your tree will be very difficult to transplant. So, take the time to plant it in just the right place.

Space Wisely

It’s important to consider areas like patios, sewer lines, and water pipes when choosing your location. Ordinarily, patios will not be a problem because the soil beneath them will be dry and compacted. Therefore, the roots will not grow into this area as much. It’s still recommended, however, that you plant at least 8-10’ away from patios, water pipes and sewer pipes. You might not expect sewer and water lines to be affected since they are buried so deeply. But, since sewer and water lines tend to be wet, roots will grow to them and around them if the tree is planted too close. By planting your trees far enough away from these items, you can avoid this problem.

Spacing Between Trees

To easily calculate how far apart you should plant your trees, look for your variety’s mature height. For example, if a Super Hass’ mature height can reach up to 25’ tall, it is recommended to plant other trees 25’ away.

Latest Articles & Videos

Rooted in ServiceRooted in Service The Stark Bro's Story of Leadership in Gardening Excellence At Stark Bro’s, we’re proud to be veteran-owned and veteran-operated, bringing the values of service and dedication directly into the heart of gardening. With over 200 years of history, we know that the strongest roots grow from a commitment to quality, integrity, and community. Our leadership upholds these principles, guiding every plant we nurture and every customer we serve. Here, we don’t just grow fruit trees; we grow relationships and legacy.
Harvest basket full of applesHarvest basket full of apples Preparing Your Garden for a Successful Fall and Winter As summer comes to an end, it’s time to give your fruit trees and berry plants the care they need to thrive through the colder months. Proper fall maintenance not only protects your plants from winter damage but also lays the foundation for healthy growth come spring. Here’s your fall checklist to help ensure a smooth transition into the next season.
Preparing a garlic bedPreparing a garlic bed How to Prep a Garlic Bed for Planting Preparing a garlic bed properly is essential for growing healthy, productive garlic plants. Garlic is usually planted in the fall, as it needs a cold period to establish strong roots before spring growth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your garlic bed for planting.
citrus treescitrus trees How to Care for Citrus Trees in Containers & Successfully Grow Citrus Indoors Imagine filling your home with the vibrant scent of citrus blossoms, while enjoying fresh fruit all year long—even if you live outside the ideal growing zones for citrus! Growing citrus in containers makes this possible, allowing you to bring the beauty and flavor of citrus into any climate. With optimal care, citrus trees can bloom and bear fruit multiple times a year, adding both color, fragrance and flavor to your living space.

Tools & Supplies for Avocado Trees