Colombia outlines simple orchard practices to keep avocado trees productive

Colombia’s agricultural research organisation AGROSAVIA has released detailed guidance on how to produce stronger avocado trees and maintain stable orchard performance. The recommendations focus on simple but critical actions, starting with the quality of planting material and continuing through daily orchard management.

A key point in the guidance is the use of certified seedlings with verified genetic identity and good sanitary condition. AGROSAVIA notes that healthy planting material is essential because weak or contaminated plants can reduce survival rates and limit productivity from the start of the orchard’s life cycle.

The organisation also highlights the importance of nursery management. Recommended conditions include maintaining temperatures between 15°C and 25°C and relative humidity close to 60% to support plant growth and reduce disease risks. Proper irrigation and well-prepared substrates are also identified as essential for strong root development and early plant establishment.

Regular orchard care is another central recommendation. AGROSAVIA advises growers to follow planned pruning schedules to control tree size and improve light penetration, apply balanced fertilisation based on crop needs and monitor orchards frequently to detect pests and diseases at an early stage. These routine practices help trees grow evenly and produce consistent fruit under changing weather conditions.

The guidance also stresses the need to renew propagation material periodically, typically every five years, to maintain plant vigour and reduce variability in orchard performance over time.

source and photo: agrosavia.co