dwarf avocados

I would like to grow a self fruitful dwarf avocado in a pot and would appreciate any recommendations for one that has good flavor. I live in zone 21 in San Diego so it could remain outside all year. Thanks, Nancita

The Holiday Avocado is a newer introduction (2001) It has proven itself to be a great little performer. A true "Dwarf" Avocado tree. The fruit tastes like a Hass and is normally ready for picking in the Winter. Can grow in containers as long as the container size is at least 24" to 30" in diameter and depth. Be sure to use a cactus mix type planting medium when you transplant it. Also be sure to put a layer of rock or broken glass at the bottom of the container to help with the drainage through the holes at the bottom of the container. If the container only has one hole, I would suggest making a few more. Avocados love fast drainage.

Hope this helps Happy gardening!

How do you know when to pick the Holiday avocados?

Hi tanyad,
I asked a friend who has a bunch of avocados and he suggests the best way is a little trial and error. For instance I always pick my 'hass' avocados when they start to turn black, but before they go all the way black and then let them ripen at room temperature.
However, I don't think Holiday turns black when ripe, so I think you'll need to check for when they get a little soft.
Also, when you pick them leave a little bit of the stem on (so i actually cut them off the tree) - that way the avocados don't rot from the hole in the top.

here's a great resource ucavo.ucr.edu/AvocadoVarieties/VarietyFrame.html#Anchor-47857

I'm envious - I'd love to have a bunch of Avocados almost ready to pick!

Thanks Mitch. I only have 2 fruit this first season, so I will have to be a little selective about the trial and error! I will wait a bit for the softening. I will report with results!

Nancita and tanyad,

You are both so lucky. In Calgary, AB, I can't even begin to think about growing avocados outside!

I just got back from visiting my sister in San Jose, CA a few weeks ago, and she had the most gorgeous avocados on a huge tree. I was able to stand underneath and take pictures of large green ripening avocados hanging in bunches far above me...sigh...

Of course, the day after I got back to Calgary, she had to tell me she was eating her first one that day!

This whole thread makes me hungry for a toasted tomato and avocado sandwich!

Cindy H
Dragonfly