Avocado is an evergreen tree grown for its nutritious fruit.

It is also known as Alligator Pear.

Avacado has  originated in the rain forests of Central America. 

The major Aocado producing countries in the world are Mexico, Dominican Republic, Peru, Indonesia and Colombia.

In India avocado is grown in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka in the south-central India and in the eastern Himalayan state of Sikkim

• Kingdom:  Plantae
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Order:  Laurales
• Family:   Lauraceae
• Genus: Persea
• Species: americana

Fruits are the most economically important part of Avocado.

Avocados thrive in subtropical or tropical climates but can also be grown successfully in cooler areas of the world.

The optimum temperature for growing avocado is between 25°C and 33°C with moderate humidity levels.

Avocado requires a well draining, aerated soil and they produce a shallow root system which require warm soils for efficient water and nutrient uptake.

Although trees will tolerate low rainfall, irrigation, particularly during flowering and fruit set, will ensure high fruit yields.

• The major challenges involve Biotic and Abiotic causes.
• Biotic Causes: 
  
  • Major Pests: Avocado Thrips, Western Avocado Leafroller, Persea Mites , Mites and Moths.
    
  • Major Diseases: Anthracnose, Black Streak, Scab, Stem End Rot and Bacterial Soft Rot.
• Abiotic Causes:
  • Baldwin spot
  • Chilling injury
  • Pulp spot