Growing Avocado in Texas

Growing Avocado in TexasHomestead Plant Of The Week | 004 | Lila Avocado

Without the avocado, would there be Tex-Mex? It’s hard to say. I, for one, find it hard to imagine eating such food without the rich, creamy addition that avocado brings to the table. That said, it’s rare to find an avocado tree in Texas. In fact, I don’t know if I’ve ever seen an avocado growing in East Texas. This is something we need to change. Let’s start growing avocado in Texas!

The main reason for this is the cold. While most of the United States wouldn’t call a Texas winter “Cold”, most avocado trees would. While growing avocado in Texas isn’t common, it is possible. There is a hand full of varieties that have been bred for colder climates. These trees, when mature, can handle freezing temperatures down to 15° F.

Lila Avocado on Amazon

Why Grow Avocados on Your Homestead?

Avocados are a delicious and nutritious fruit. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins C and E, and potassium. Avocados also contain monounsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Avocados can be bought at the grocery store, but they can be expensive. Growing your own avocados is a great way to save money and get fresh, delicious fruit. Avocado trees can be grown in Texas. They require full sun and well-drained soil. Avocados can be grown from seed or from a purchased plant.

Lila Avocado Tree

The Lila Avocado Tree is a smaller, semi-dwarf tree. This Mexican variety grows to around 10 feet tall at maturity and can be easily maintained at 5 feet. This is great for growing the avocado tree in a pot. One benefit would be that you can move the tree indoors or to a warmer location when it is cold. Once established, Lila Avocado Trees are cold-hardy down to 15° F.

What you need to know about Lila Avocado Trees

Pollination	Self-Fruitful (No Pollinator Required)
Ripening Date	July – September
Spacing	Plant trees 15-20 feet apart
USDA Zones	8-11
Sun Exposure	Full Sun
Mature Height	10 feet
Cold-Hardiness	Down to 15 degrees
Soil	Well Drained

Where to buy Lila avocado trees?

I recommend buying from Bob Wells Nursery. Bob Wells is a local businessman and ships great products all over the US. You can order trees from Bob Wells on amazon.com or from his website bobwellsnursery.com.

Want more info on growing avocado in Texas?

Growing avocados in Texas can be rewarding, but it comes with unique challenges due to climate and soil conditions. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has put together a detailed guide that covers everything you need to know about successfully cultivating avocados in the state.

Choosing the Right Avocado Trees

Avocado trees come in different varieties, but not all are suited for Texas. The most successful types for this region are cold-hardy Mexican varieties, as they can withstand lower temperatures better than Guatemalan or West Indian types. These trees tend to have smaller, darker fruit and a more resilient root system.

Climate Considerations

Avocados thrive in warm conditions but can suffer in freezing temperatures. If you’re in a colder part of Texas, selecting a cold-hardy variety and providing winter protection is essential. Young trees are especially vulnerable, so covering them or planting them in a location with some natural wind protection can help improve survival rates.

Soil and Planting Tips

• Well-drained soil is a must. Avocado trees do not tolerate standing water, so sandy or loamy soil with good drainage is best. Avoid heavy clay soil unless modifications are made.
• Planting on raised beds or mounds can improve drainage and reduce root rot risks, a common problem with avocado trees.
• Sun exposure is key. Avocados need full sun for healthy growth and fruit production, so choose a site with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Watering and Fertilization

• Young trees need frequent watering, but it’s important to let the soil dry slightly between waterings to prevent root disease.
• As the tree matures, deep but less frequent watering encourages strong root development.
• Avocados require regular fertilization, with nitrogen being the most important nutrient for strong growth.

Protecting Trees from Cold

• Young trees are more susceptible to cold damage, so providing insulation around the base and covering the canopy during freezes can help protect them.
• Planting avocados near structures or on the south side of buildings can provide additional warmth during winter.

For more in-depth information on growing avocados in Texas, including recommended tree care, pest management, and more, check out the full guide from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service:

👉 Click here for the download.

By selecting the right variety and following proper care techniques, you can successfully grow avocados in Texas!

Previous Homestead Plants of the Week

• Lapins Cherry
• Arctic Frost Satsuma
• Methley Plum Tree

Closing Thoughts

Growing avocados in Texas may not be the norm, but with the right variety and proper care, it’s entirely possible—and incredibly rewarding. The Lila avocado, along with other cold-hardy Mexican varieties, offers a unique opportunity for homesteaders and gardeners to enjoy fresh, homegrown avocados even in areas where the climate poses a challenge.

Whether you’re looking to save money, enjoy better-tasting fruit, or simply take on a new gardening adventure, planting an avocado tree can be a great addition to your homestead. By selecting a well-drained planting site, ensuring proper sun exposure, and protecting young trees from extreme cold, you’ll give your avocado tree the best chance to thrive.

If you’re ready to start growing your own avocados, check out Bob Wells Nursery for high-quality trees and expert advice. And don’t forget to grab the Texas A&M Avocado Growing Guide for even more tips on successful cultivation.

Have you tried growing avocados in Texas? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below—I’d love to hear how your avocado-growing journey is going!