Avocado 'Fuerte'

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Water during dry spells. Take care not to over water, which may cause roots to rot. Apply fertilizer four times a year after tree becomes established. Fruiting should begin approximately 2-3 years after planting.

Older trees are susceptible to iron and zinc deficiencies. They may also benefit from nitrogenous fertilizer. ¹

‘Fuerte’ flowers open on a “B” schedule (flowers open twice: once in morning to disperse pollen, and a second time in the afternoon to receive pollen). Although this cultivar is capable of self-pollination, especially in favorable conditions, matching it with a cultivar on an “A” schedule may increase yields.

Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Keep in mind when planting that Fuerte is thought of as half hardy, so it will need cloching or fleece protection when the temperature dips.

Ensure that temperatures are mild (minimum night temperatures should be around -3°C / 27°F) and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Fuerte is a half hardy plant.

This variety tends to be ready for harvesting by early winter.

The variety was named ‘Fuerte’ (Spanish for “strong”) after weathering a severe frost in 1913 much more successfully than other varieties undergoing trial in California at that time.

The Latin word “Americana” means “of the Americas”.²

‘Fuerte’ was the most widely grown commercial variety in California for decades after its introduction in the 1910’s, but was surpassed in popularity by Hass by the end of the 20th century.

¹ California Rare Fruit Growers – AVOCADO Fruit Facts

² Latin Dictionary