Avocado question

 I am in the SE corner of South Australia. I have a fairly large avocado
tree, about 11 years old, grown from a pip (maybe a Hass, those are the
most common ones we get in the shops here) that I planted in what must
have been just the right sheltered spot.

This year, for the first time, it has fruit - only about 8, but fair
sized ones.  When should I pick them ? I know they only ripen once they
are off the tree, but how do I tell when they are ready ?  I've asked
around locally but this seems to be the only avocado in the area, so I'm
feeling quite proud of my achievement !

Many thanks.

--
Anne Chambers,
South Australia
anne dot chambers at bigpond dot com

 

  Anne may be of interest.

Bill

<http://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/avocado.html>

--
Garden in shade zone 5 S Jersey USA
Neat place .. http://www.petersvalley.org/

 Bill wrote:

Thanks - doesn't really tell me when to pick them though.

--
Anne Chambers,
South Australia
anne dot chambers at bigpond dot com

 

Harvest: The time of harvest depends upon the variety. Commercial
standards requires fruit to reach 8% oil content before harvesting.
Mexican types ripen in 6 - 8 months from bloom while Guatemalan types
usually take 12 - 18 months. Fruits may continue enlarging on the tree
even after maturity. Purple cultivars should be permitted to color fully
before harvest. Guatemalan types can be stored firm, at 40 - 50° F. for
up to six weeks. Mexican types discolor quickly and require immediate
consumption.

--
Garden in shade zone 5 S Jersey USA
Neat place .. http://www.petersvalley.org/

 Bill wrote:

Thanks, Bill - I did see that ....but how do I know when 8% oil content
is reached ?  I don't know if I have a Mexican type, a Guatemalan type
or if it's a purple cultivar.  I was really hoping someone growing
avocados in a similar climate in Australia would be able to help.

Thanks for your time.

--
Anne Chambers,
South Australia
anne dot chambers at bigpond dot com