Have you ever wondered just how much water it takes to grow an avocado tree? With avocado being one of California’s main crops, coupled with a record drought the state is facing, just how much water does an avocado tree really need?
How Much?
Mature avocado trees require about 40-50 inches of rain annually to thrive. On the other hand, younger trees require even more water to help them full establish their roots. While a mature tree can go without water for anywhere between 7 to 30 days depending on the weather, a growing tree needs to be watered weekly.
Too Much? Too Little?
Like other plants, avocado trees can be affected by too much, or too little, water. Over-watering can drown the roots, hindering them from soaking up oxygen. Both over-watering and under-watering can cause root rot, resulting in smaller tree canopies and discoloration of the leaves.
Keep in mind that a tree’s watering needs can vary with the weather. When it is hot and dry, and avocado tree may require more frequent watering. When the weather is a bit cooler, you can use mulch around the tree to help conserve water and keep the soil moist. During the really cold months, a tree can go longer between watering, and needs to be watered when the soil becomes dry.
How can you tell if an avocado tree has had too much or too little water? A good way to tell is by digging about 6 inches into the soil. Take a handful of the soil and squeeze it in your hand. If it holds together in a ball, the tree has enough water. If it doesn’t stick together and crumbles, it needs more water.
Proper Irrigation
Besides the amount of water, irrigation can affect an avocado tree. If the water is allowed to stand around the roots, the roots can actually drown. An avocado tree needs to be planted in soil that can drain well.
We all love avocados. Unfortunately with record high-temperatures and on-going droughts, can avocado trees thrive?