Black Princess avocado Tree , “Cold Hardy” Grafted in 3 Gallon Pot, No Ship to HI

The Black Princess Avocado is a unique hybrid known for its dark, nearly black skin when ripe and its creamy texture. This productive and high-quality avocado tree thrives with proper care and offers delicious avocados for culinary use.

Light Requirements

• Full Sun: Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to ensure healthy growth and fruit production.
• Outdoor Growing: Choose a sunny, well-lit area and avoid shaded spots.
• Indoor Growing: Place near a south-facing window or use grow lights if natural light is insufficient.

Watering

• Water consistently to maintain moist, well-drained soil.
• Water every 5-7 days during the growing season; reduce in winter.
• Signs of Overwatering: Root rot, drooping branches, or waterlogged soil.
• Ensure proper drainage, especially in potted containers.

Temperature

• Ideal Range: 60°F - 85°F (15°C - 29°C).
• Cold Sensitivity: Avoid exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or frost.
• Protect indoor plants from cold drafts.

Soil

• Well-Draining Loamy Soil: Add perlite or sand to improve drainage.
• pH: Optimal range is 6.0 - 6.5.
• Avoid heavy clay that holds too much moisture.

Fertilizing

• Fertilize with 10-10-10 or specialized avocado fertilizers every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer.
• Dilute to half-strength to prevent over-fertilization.
• Organic options like compost can also be used. Reduce fertilization in winter.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Light Pruning: Trim dead, diseased, or damaged branches to maintain airflow and shape.
• Encourage Bushier Growth: Pinch new growth and cut back long branches if needed.

Pollination

• Self-Pollinating: No need for another tree to produce fruit, though nearby trees can boost yields.
• Avocado trees rely on bee activity or manual pollination using a brush indoors.

Pests & Problems

Common pests:

• Aphids
• Scale insects
• Mealybugs
• Spider mites

Solutions: Treat infestations with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or diluted alcohol solutions.
Root rot can occur from overwatering—ensure good drainage.

Harvesting

• Matures 8-9 months after flowering.
• Avocados will not ripen on the tree; pick firm and allow ripening at room temperature.
• Placing them in a paper bag can speed ripening.

Container Growing

• Use pots 18-24 inches wide with drainage holes.
• Repot every 1-2 years with fresh, well-draining soil.
• During colder months, bring indoors to avoid frost.

Toxicity

• Non-Toxic to Pets: The Black Princess is safe for pets. However, the pit and skin can be harmful, so always dispose of them properly.

With proper care, the Black Princess Avocado is an excellent addition to your garden or container collection, offering beautiful fruits and aesthetic appeal.