Tree phenology – Back to basics

Avocado tree phenology refers to the seasonal timing of plant growth stages. Having an understanding of tree phenology can help inform orchard management practices. The exact timing of growth events will depend on a number of factors including tree resource status, age, climate and soil temperature. There will also be variations in timing between different locations throughout New Zealand. The videos below outline the phenological events associated with a regular bearing tree and an irregularly bearing tree. The ‘Reading your trees’ guide can be used to assess trees at key phenological stages to better understand the status of the tree and what actions may be appropriate to maximise productivity.