Harvesting Avocados
Avocados are harvested mature but firm and allowed to ripen off the tree. They do not soften while still attached to the tree.
Care instructions
Harvest at full maturity.
Avocados should reach full size for the variety before picking. They may remain firm on the tree even when mature.
Check the season.
Maturity depends on the variety and growing region. Harvest during the typical ripening window for your cultivar.
Perform a test pick.
Pick one mature-looking avocado and allow it to soften indoors. If it ripens well without shriveling, the crop is ready.
Cut, don’t pull.
Use pruners to cut the fruit, leaving a small piece of stem attached. Pulling can damage branches.
Harvest during dry conditions.
Pick on a dry day if possible to reduce storage issues.
Handle carefully.
Although firm at harvest, avocados bruise internally if dropped or squeezed.
Ripen at room temperature.
Allow avocados to soften at room temperature until they yield gently to pressure.
Store properly after ripening.
Once ripe, store in the refrigerator and use within several days.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to harvest avocados?
Avocados should be harvested at full maturity, meaning they have reached their full size for the variety. Maturity also depends on the specific cultivar and growing region.
How do I know if an avocado is ready to be picked?
To check if your avocados are ready, pick one mature-looking fruit and allow it to soften indoors. If it ripens properly without shriveling, your crop is ready to be harvested.
What is the correct way to remove avocados from the tree?
Always use pruners to cut the avocado fruit from the tree, making sure to leave a small piece of stem attached. Pulling the fruit can damage the branches.
How should harvested avocados be ripened?
Avocados ripen best off the tree. Allow them to soften at room temperature until they yield gently to pressure, as they will not soften while still attached to the tree.
Can avocados get bruised even if they are firm?
Yes, even though avocados are firm at harvest, they can suffer internal bruising if they are dropped or squeezed roughly during handling.
How should I store ripe avocados?
Once avocados have ripened and are soft, you should store them in the refrigerator. They are best used within several days after being refrigerated.
