How to Identify an Avocado Tree
- 1). Check to see if the tree is between 60 and 80 feet in length. Measure the tree, if possible, to be truly accurate. Note that if it's that tall, it has the possibility of being an avocado tree.
- 2). Look at the leaves to see if they are growing alternately, which means that every other leaf seems to grow in the opposite direction and that each leaf is on its own stem attached to the branch. Measure the leaves. On average, the leaf length should be between 4 1/2 and 10 inches. Also, check to see if they are smooth on the edges.
- 3). Poke at the soil around the tree to see if it's loose. Avocado trees like to grow in loose soil, allowing a lot of water to the roots.
- 4). Check carefully for small flowers, less than 1/2 inch in diameter, and are yellow-green in color. If you notice these, along with the what you've noticed in the first three steps, you may have found an avocado tree that's not currently producing any avocados, usually between January and March.
- 5). Check the tree's stems and branches for avocados, which are a pear-shaped fruit ranging in color from light green to very dark, almost a black-green. They can be as small as 3 inches and as large as 8 inches in length and have a large pit in their center. Avocados will usually be present around spring or early summer.
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