Protect Your Avocado Trees from Sunburn

One of the questions I get asked the most is, "Why are your avocado trees white?"

Think about going to the beach on a hot summer day. Most of us put on sunscreen because we know we'll regret skipping it later that night. I like to think of it the same way for avocado trees.

A lot of people assume avocado trees can handle extreme heat, but the reality is that temperatures above 90°F begin to stress them. Young trees, especially those between 0 and 3 years old, need protection from intense sunlight.

If you plant a young avocado tree in the ground and don't provide adequate sun protection, a stretch of hot weather with temperatures in the 90s or higher can easily cause sunburn. Once the trunk or branches are sunburned, the tree has a harder time transporting water and nutrients throughout the tree. That stress can slow growth, weaken the tree, and in severe cases, even kill branches.

The good news is that preventing sunburn is simple. Here are two methods that I use.

Option 1: White Latex Paint

One of the easiest and least expensive ways to protect your avocado tree is with interior white latex paint.

Check your garage—you may already have some! Mix the paint with water in a 50/50 ratio until it's well blended. Then, use a brush to apply the mixture to all exposed wood, including the trunk and main branches.

Be careful not to get any paint on the leaves. The leaves are responsible for photosynthesis, and we don't want to interfere with the tree's ability to produce energy.

This simple step acts like sunscreen for your avocado tree. It reflects the sun's rays, keeps the bark cooler, and helps prevent sunburn during periods of extreme heat. It's an inexpensive way to protect young trees while they become established.

Option 2: Surround® WP

Another excellent option is Surround® WP, an organic kaolin clay spray that protects avocado trees from excessive sun and heat stress.

Unlike white latex paint, Surround® WP can be sprayed over the entire tree, including the leaves, branches, trunk, and even the fruit. Once it dries, it forms a protective white coating that reflects sunlight while still allowing the leaves to photosynthesize normally.

Simply mix Surround® WP according to the label directions and spray until the tree is evenly coated. Reapply after heavy rain or as new growth appears to maintain protection.

I've had great success using Surround® WP on my avocado trees, especially during long stretches of hot summer weather.

My Final Thoughts

Protecting your avocado trees from sunburn is one of the best investments you can make, especially during the first few years after planting. Whether you choose the 50/50 white latex paint mixture or Surround® WP, taking a little time to protect your trees now can prevent serious damage later.

Healthy bark leads to healthy growth, and healthy growth leads to more avocados. Your future self—and your trees—will thank you!