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Avocado trees are, in general, very tall trees of dense, shiny green foliage, which produce a pear-shaped fruit appreciated for its tenderness and great taste. The avocado tree thrives in warm climates, and requires very little maintenance effort. But due to its huge proportions and climate requirements, not many gardeners can include it in their planting schemes. However, there are now dwarf avocado trees that allow anyone to enjoy the tree and its fruit, whether they are planted indoors or outdoors.
Avocado trees originated in the warm subtropical climate of Mexico. It is for this reason that they cannot stand cold climates. Although there are certain varieties that are hardier, the truth is that if the tree is a young plant, it will be very difficult for it to survive in colder climates. As the avocado tree likes mild climates, it is imperative that you take measures in order to avoid exposing them to very low temperatures. If you plant it outdoors, make sure the temperature never goes down to freezing. If it is impossible to plant it outdoors, keep it inside in winter, in a sheltered location. In order to bloom, the dwarf avocado tree needs rather low temperatures at night. A porch or covered patio is an ideal location. If the temperature goes below freezing, you can further protect it by covering it with a plastic bag or a light rug. You should always move it outdoors in the spring and summer months. Bear in mind that, in order to produce fruit, they must be placed in the full sun.
The dwarf avocado tree thrives in loose, well-drained soil. It is a good idea to add sand to the soil so that you are sure it will drain properly. If you are growing it in a container, make sure the container has many drainage holes, so that water does not collect at the bottom. Another requirement is adequate watering. Be sure not to overdo it, since too much water can be fatal. Water whenever you notice that the soil is too dry. This means that at least the first two inches of the top soil must be dry before you water it. If you can see the soil is still moist, refrain from watering the tree, since doing so can cause the tree to get root rot.
Dwarf avocado trees require light pruning, especially in the first years. If they get too big they can be trimmed to the desired size. It is also necessary to fertilize dwarf avocado trees every three months or so. There are fertilizers especially formulated for avocado trees. Another thing to point out is that although their foliage is perennial, they can shed many leaves at the beginning of the spring season. This is normal, but in a big plant can be quite messy.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about fruit trees and gardening articles at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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