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Pinkerton Avocado Tree

The Pinkerton avocado tree is considered a Type A avocado variety, which means it functions as a female flower in the morning and then becomes a male flower in the afternoon. It requires cross-pollination with a Type B avocado tree, such as Fuerte or Ryan, for optimal fruit production.

Type A: Female in the morning, male in the afternoon (next day)
Type B: Female in the afternoon, male in the morning (next day)

Pinkerton avocado trees are known for their relatively good cold tolerance compared to some other avocado varieties. They can withstand temperatures as low as -2 to -1 °C for short periods, making them suitable for cultivation in mild-winter regions.

This avocado cultivar is great for smaller gardens, as it is classified as almost dwarf. The fruits are deliciously rich, with a fairly thick skin that peels off easily.

The flesh has a high oil content, meaning this fruit is an excellent addition to boost your nutrient intake. They’re also high in fiber, protein, magnesium, potassium, vitamins, carotenoids, and phytosteroids.

Eat Pinkerton avos freshly sliced and drizzled with lemon juice and black pepper, add them to salads and sandwiches, or blitz them with chili and garlic for a delicious dip.

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SKU: AVO001-PKT Categories: All Tropicals, Avocado Trees

Description
Additional information

Position

Find a sunny spot in your garden for your Pinkerton avocado tree, preferably one that is sheltered from the wind. Plant it about 3 meters from buildings and walls, and around 7 to 10 meters from other avocado trees.

Size

The Pinkerton tree grows to a mature height of around 7 meters with a canopy spread of 6 to 9 meters.

Soil Type

Pinkerton avo trees are water-hungry, but the roots rot when they become waterlogged. So, these trees do best in sandy, loamy soil that drains well. A slightly acidic soil pH is recommended between 5.0 and 7.0; plants with at least one bag of acid compost.

Improve soil quality by adding a bag of Volcanic Rock Dust (R25 per bag), which replaces minerals and trace elements that our soils have lost, add a bag of Superfrass (R25 per bag) at planting to boost nutrients (NPK and micronutrients) and support strong, healthy growth while also helping protect against pests.

Watering

Like all avocado trees, Pinkertons demand a lot of water. If you live in an area with regular rainfall, you may only have to water your tree two to three times a week. In drier areas, this may increase to daily watering. Soak the soil completely when watering your tree. Then, water it again when the soil is somewhat dry.

Mulching

Apply organic mulch to your Avocado tree year-round.

Use from 2 to 5 centimeters of pine bark mulch to protect the roots from UV damage and drying out. It retains moisture and maintains an optimal pH. Do not let the mulch touch the plant stem, as it may cause infection or rot.

Fertilising

Sprinkle a tablespoon of nitrogen around your tree three times a year – once in spring, once in summer, and once in autumn. Then, water the area liberally to allow nitrogen to be absorbed deeply into the soil.

Our high-nitrogen, slow-release All Plant Fertiliser works well for all plants and trees. 1 teaspoon every 4-5 months.

Pruning

Prune your avocado tree at the end of winter or the beginning of spring, using clean, sterilized pruning tools to reduce the risk of spreading diseases between trees. Keep the canopy open, light, and well ventilated by removing overcrowded or crossing branches. Trim off low-growing horizontal branches that hang close to the ground, and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased growth. Remove any shoots or growth that develops below the graft, as this growth comes from the rootstock and should not be allowed to develop.

Pests and Diseases

Spraying regularly with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control)

Regularly spraying with Agricultural Neem Oil or Effective Microorganisms (EM Control) can help manage common pests and support overall plant health. If aphids or mites are already present, first wash the tree thoroughly with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests. Once the foliage has dried, spray with Neem Oil or EM Control according to the product instructions.

Practice good garden hygiene by removing fallen fruit and leaves from around the tree, as these can harbour pests and fungal diseases.

Avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. During wet or humid periods, monitor the tree for signs of fungal diseases and ensure good air circulation around the foliage.

Harvesting

Pick the largest avocados first, usually midway through autumn. They should mature on the tree for as long as possible, but try to pluck them off before they fall. They will continue to ripen once picked.