When to pick avocados?

flowerfairy


Joined: 17/09/2008
Posts: 1277

Message Posted:
09/12/2011 10:28

Yes, we have fruit this year!!!!!!,

Being an ex greengrocer, they came hard in boxes.

Do I leave them on the tree to ripen, or pick them and wait until they're soft?

Groucho



Joined: 26/04/2008
Posts: 7993

Message Posted:
09/12/2011 11:36

Congratulations - how long have you had the trees?

This link gives some advice http://www.ehow.com/how_2096874_harvest-avocados.html

Hope it helps.

Mrs G

BoTanica


Joined: 22/12/2009
Posts: 714

Message Posted:
09/12/2011 11:40

I believe that they do not go soft on the tree, they only do this after picking. You should also pick with a piece of stalk left on. I would pick one, and leave it to go soft and taste it. If its fine then just pick and soften as req'd. If it is bitter or rubbery after turning soft, then it isn't ready for picking.



PS Lucky you - I would love an avocado tree!

flowerfairy


Joined: 17/09/2008
Posts: 1277

Message Posted:
10/12/2011 09:00

Thank you all for your replies. I think the tree was planted about 4/5 years ago. This is the first time it has fruited. I'll let you know how I get on.

I did grow a seedling from an avocado stone. Was really successful, then I forgot it, and it died:(

Give it a try, you have nothing to lose, but remember to water it,

Jovial_John


Joined: 31/01/2009
Posts: 1024

Message Posted:
10/12/2011 09:49

The locals pick them and then wrap them in newspaper to ripen them - it works but don't put them in the fridge until they are ripe.



BoTanica: I bought mine from the garden centre on the right of the main road between Lapta strip and Karsiyaka, it's on a bend just opposite the last turn to Lapta.

martinD41


Joined: 06/09/2010
Posts: 3001

Message Posted:
10/12/2011 09:51

Where they grafted?

louthlass


Joined: 09/11/2008
Posts: 271

Message Posted:
10/12/2011 12:26

Put your avacados in a fruit bowl with bananas, and they will ripen perfectly. I have grown mine from avacardo stones.

rejela


Joined: 09/02/2011
Posts: 293

Message Posted:
10/12/2011 19:32

Once the fruit is fully formed then it can be picked. Don't leave it on the tree as it will get eaten by rodents in the tree. We get this problem every year.