The Summer Flush: One of the Most Important Times for Your Avocado Tree

The summer flush is one of my favorite times of the year because this is when avocado trees really start pushing out a lot of new growth. If you look closely at your tree, you'll notice fresh leaves and shoots beginning to appear everywhere.

Here in California, avocado trees typically have three major growth flushes throughout the year: a spring flush, a summer flush, and a fall flush. Even though avocado trees continue growing year-round, growth slows down dramatically during the winter when temperatures are cooler and the days are shorter.

So why is the summer flush so important?

If you live in Southern California, chances are you're going to experience plenty of days above 90°F. Once temperatures get that high, avocado trees begin to experience heat stress. Instead of putting all their energy into growing, they're now working overtime just to stay cool and hydrated.

This is why your tree needs a little extra attention during the summer.

Water Is Critical

One of the biggest things you can do to protect your summer flush is to make sure your tree is getting enough water.

Now, the question I get all the time is, "How much should I water my avocado tree?"

The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Every yard is different. Your watering schedule depends on your soil type, the size and age of your tree, whether it's planted in the ground or in a container, how much sun it receives, and how hot it's been.

If your tree is in full sun during the summer, the risk usually isn't overwatering—it's letting the tree get too dry. During periods of extreme heat, your avocado tree uses a tremendous amount of water. If it's producing a summer flush and holding a crop of avocados at the same time, it's working even harder. The tree is trying to grow new branches and leaves while also supplying water and nutrients to developing fruit.

If the tree becomes water-stressed during this time, you may notice the new growth slowing down, leaves wilting or burning, or even small fruit dropping prematurely.

Protect That New Growth

The new growth your tree produces during the summer isn't just for looks. Those new branches and leaves will mature over the coming months and can become the wood that flowers during the next blooming season. In other words, the summer flush is helping set your tree up for next year's crop. That's why protecting this new growth is so important.

Keep your tree well-watered, protect it from sunburn if temperatures are expected to climb above 90°F, and avoid letting it dry out during long heat waves. A healthy summer flush today can mean a stronger bloom and more avocados next season.

Taking care of your avocado tree during the summer is one of the best investments you can make. The healthier this flush is, the better your tree will be prepared for the next flowering cycle—and hopefully, an even bigger harvest.