Avocados are an incredible superfood. This mild fruit lends itself well in various dips, dishes, or on its own. Homegrown avocados taste infinitely better than store-bought, but is it possible to grow avocados in Houston?
While avocado trees are native to Mexico, you could grow this fruit in Houston, depending on the variety. Continue reading for a guide to growing avocado trees in Houston.
Do Avocado Trees Grow Well in Houston?
People do not commonly grow avocados in Texas, but the trees can survive in certain places like Houston. Some of the best avocado trees for Houston are Mexican, Guatemalan, or West Indian varieties. These types of trees are hearty, thriving in Southern states.
This variety of avocado trees grows tall and produces excellent quality yields. When cared for, watered and fertilized correctly, these trees live for decades. These tropical trees handle Houston’s humid climate well, thriving in sunny conditions.
What Types of Avocado Trees are Best in Houston?
Selecting the correct avocado tree variety is crucial for its ability to survive and thrive in various environments. Here are the top five avocado trees to grow in Houston.
Cold Hardy Avocado Tree
Cold hardy avocado trees are great for Houston winters, surviving in low temperatures. However, if this tree freezes, it will weaken or die. Plant the cold hardy avocado tree in a container so you can bring it inside during the cooler months.
This avocado tree grows faster than others. After planting seeds, you might be able to yield fresh avocados in as little as three years instead of waiting closer to a decade. This tree continues producing avocados annually.
Bacon Avocado Tree
Bacon avocado trees are another variety excellent for withstanding Houston’s climate. This tree loves the sunlight in spring and summer and produces an impressive amount of fruit during winter.
The bacon avocado tree is a late-producing variety, bearing fruit when others stop producing for the season. It has beautiful dark green leaves, reaching almost 20 feet tall. This tree is an impressive addition to any Houston lawn.
Condo Avocado Tree
Condo avocado trees are unique because of their small size. It is the perfect avocado tree for those who do not have much outdoor space. Plant the condo avocado tree in a container and keep it on a patio, balcony, or inside next to a sunny window.
Although this tree is smaller than average, it still produces an abundance of avocados yearly. This indoor avocado variety starts producing fruit at around three feet tall.
Doni Avocado Tree
Doni avocado trees produce fruit early compared to other varieties. This plant is self-fertilizing, meaning it uses its pollen to produce fruit.
Doni avocados are mild and creamy, perfect for sauces, dips, and dressings. This avocado is long and slim with a dark green outer skin.
The doni avocado tree is another variety that is sensitive to freezing. Plant it in a container, and bring it indoors during the winter.
Hass Avocado Tree
Hass avocados are one of the most popular varieties, accounting for about 80% of all avocados eaten globally. This tree grows up to seven feet high when planted in a container, producing large fruit.
Hass avocado trees love the sunlight and warm climate in Houston. They do not withstand cold weather, so plant the seedling in a pot.
This avocado variety is self-pollinating. If you want an even more bountiful harvest, plant another avocado tree next to the first. There are two kinds of avocados — type A and type B. Hass avocados are type A. Planting a type B tree next to it increases pollen levels, producing even more fruit.
How Many Years Until an Avocado Tree Gives Fruit?
Growing avocado trees requires time and patience before reaping the rewards. If you plant a tree or sapling, you will see fruit about three to four years later. Starting from seed takes even longer. Seeds take from five to 13 years before they are large enough to produce fruit.
Once you notice the tree producing fruit, you must wait for them to mature. When the avocado is fully grown, pick it from the branch and wait some more. Avocados are hard when you first pluck them from the tree. Leave them on the counter for up to two weeks until they soften enough to eat.
How Many Avocados Does One Tree Produce?
After several years, an avocado tree begins producing fruit consistently. Some varieties can grow hundreds of fruit per tree. Though, most trees do not bear the same amount each season. Avocado trees alternate bearing, meaning they may produce a large harvest one year and a much smaller yield the next.
After your avocado tree grows enough to produce fruit, it continues growing avocados year after year. These trees live for a long time, some up to 400 years!