Avocadopedia.com
The Avocado Family
History
The history of avocados goes back thousands of years to Central and South America. People in these regions, especially in what is now Mexico, started growing avocados around 5000 BCE. The ancient Aztecs and Mayans loved avocados, which they called "ahuacatl," meaning testicle because of their shape. They used avocados a lot in their diets and thought they had special, love-related powers. The fruit spread to other areas through early trade and the movement of people.
Europeans first encountered avocados in the 1500s when Spanish explorers arrived in the Americas. They were fascinated by the fruit and took it back to Europe, where it was seen as an exotic treat. However, avocados didn't become really popular in the United States until the late 1800s and early 1900s, when better farming and transport methods helped spread them. In the early 1900s, California became a major place for growing avocados, leading to the creation of the Hass avocado, which is now the most common type eaten worldwide.
Manufacturing Americas
The history of avocados in the United States started in the late 1800s when they were first brought to California. Farmers found that the climate there was perfect for growing avocados. By the early 1900s, commercial avocado farming began to grow, with farmers testing different types to find the best ones. In 1926, a man named Rudolph Hass patented the Hass avocado, which became very popular because of its great taste and long shelf life. The California Avocado Association, founded in 1915, helped promote avocado farming and supported growers.
In the 20th century, better farming techniques and transportation boosted avocado production and distribution in the U.S. Improved irrigation, pest control, and breeding methods led to higher yields and better quality avocados. Better transportation networks made it easier to distribute avocados across the country, increasing their popularity. By the late 1900s, avocados were a common part of American diets, especially with the rise of health-conscious eating and dishes like guacamole. Today, California is still a leading producer of avocados, along with Florida and Hawaii.
The Future
Growing avocados from seed takes about 4 to 6 weeks to sprout, but most commercial growers use grafted trees to save time. It generally takes 3 to 4 years for a young, grafted avocado tree to start producing fruit. A tree reaches full production around 5 to 7 years old, with optimal care and growing conditions.
Starting an avocado forest requires a warm climate with temperatures between 60°F and 85°F, full sun, and well-draining soil with a pH between 6 and 7. Regular watering is essential, especially in the first few years, and proper spacing (about 20 feet by 20 feet) ensures adequate sunlight and airflow. Fertilization with a balanced mix of nutrients and regular pest and disease management are crucial for healthy growth. Additionally, consider planting complementary varieties for better pollination and using wind protection to prevent damage.
Love Yourself.
Eat an Avocado.