{"product_id":"avocado-bacon","title":"Avocado Bacon","description":"\u003cdiv dir=\"ltr\" align=\"left\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBacon Avocado\u003c\/strong\u003e is a cold-hardy, green-skinned avocado variety developed in California in the 1950s. It is widely prized by home orchardists for its ability to withstand temperatures that would kill more sensitive varieties like the 'Hass'. The Bacon Avocado features smooth, thin, bright green skin that remains green even when the fruit is fully ripe. The flesh is pale yellow-green with a light, creamy consistency. It has a milder, less oily flavor than a 'Hass,' often described as clean and buttery. Unlike many spreading fruit trees, the Bacon grows in a tall, upright, and columnar fashion, making it an excellent choice for narrow spaces or as a windbreak. Because of its slender vertical shape and glossy evergreen foliage, it serves as an attractive ornamental tree as well as a food producer. It is particularly popular in USDA Zones 8b–11, where growers need a reliable tree that can handle occasional light freezes without losing its crop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width: 99.9102%; height: 414.773px;\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e \u003ccol style=\"width: 28.1087%;\"\u003e \u003ccol style=\"width: 71.8752%;\"\u003e \u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003ePersea americana\u003c\/em\u003e 'Bacon'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 177.983px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 177.983px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage: Evergreen\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 177.983px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003eEvergreen, large, and glossy. They are dark green, elliptical, and leathery. New spring growth often emerges with a reddish or bronze tint.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small, greenish-yellow, and grow in clusters. The 'Bacon' is a Type B pollinator (flowers open as female in the afternoon and male the following morning).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-sized (6–12 oz) with smooth, thin green skin that remains green even when ripe. The flesh is pale green, creamy, and has a mild, buttery flavor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeeds: \u003c\/strong\u003eFeatures a single, relatively large, round seed located in the center of the fruit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBark:\u003c\/strong\u003e On young trees, the bark is smooth and green. As it matures, it becomes greyish-brown, thick, and develops a slightly rough or corky texture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLife Span: Perennial\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e50 to 400+ years (Avocado trees are very long-lived, though commercial productivity may peak around 20–40 years).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMature Height\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e20 to 30 feet (Can be kept smaller with regular pruning).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMature Width (Spread)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003e15 to 20 feet (It has a more slender, upright \"columnar\" habit compared to other spreading varieties).\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Rate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5966px;\"\u003eFast; can grow several feet per year under ideal conditions.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA Zone\/Chill Hours \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1989px;\"\u003eZone 8b to 11 (One of the most cold-tolerant varieties, handling temperatures down to 20°F–24°F); Requires 100-200 chill hours below 45°F to set fruit effectively (Low-chill). \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLANT CARE \u0026amp; CHARACTERISTICS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLight Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eFull Sun. \u003c\/em\u003eRequires at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production and a strong canopy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSun Protection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Young avocado trees have thin green bark that is prone to \u003cem\u003esunscald. \u003c\/em\u003eIt is a common practice to paint the trunk of young trees with a 50\/50 mixture of white interior latex paint and water to protect them from the harsh afternoon sun until the canopy provides enough natural shade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eModerate to High. \u003c\/em\u003eNeeds consistent moisture, especially during the flowering and fruit-set stages. Young trees require deep watering 2–3 times a week during hot periods.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrought Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eLow to Moderate.\u003c\/em\u003e Once established, it can tolerate short dry spells, but prolonged drought will cause fruit drop and leaf scorch. It is not a xeric plant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eLoose and Well-Draining.\u003c\/em\u003e Prefers sandy or loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is highly sensitive to \"wet feet\" and heavy clay that retains water.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Mounding Method: \u003c\/strong\u003eIf you have soil that doesn't drain perfectly, plant the 'Bacon' avocado on a slight mound or \"hill\" (about 1–2 feet high). This ensures the sensitive root crown stays above the water line during heavy rains.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulching: \u003c\/strong\u003eBecause avocado roots are very shallow, they benefit immensely from a thick layer (4–6 inches) of coarse wood mulch. This regulates soil temperature and keeps the roots from drying out in the sun.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeer Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eLow. \u003c\/em\u003eDeer will readily browse the tender new foliage and young shoots, though they tend to ignore the thicker, mature leathery leaves.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePest\/Disease Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e Moderate.\u003c\/em\u003e Susceptible to \u003cstrong\u003ePhytophthora (Root Rot) \u003c\/strong\u003eif soil drainage is poor. It shows good resistance to many common avocado pests but can be affected by mites or thrips in dry conditions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePollination:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cem\u003eType B Flowing. \u003c\/em\u003eFlowers open as female in the afternoon and male the following morning. While it can self-pollinate, yield is significantly higher if planted near a Type A variety (\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Avocado Hass\" href=\"https:\/\/texastreefarms.com\/products\/avocado-hass?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=54c2cc804\u0026amp;_ss=r\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(43, 0, 255);\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'Avocado Hass'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e, 'Reed', or 'Pinkerton') for cross-pollination.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvest:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Typically late fall through winter (\u003cem\u003eNovember to March\u003c\/em\u003e). Unlike most fruit, avocados do not ripen on the tree; they must be picked once they reach full size to begin the softening process.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYIELD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width: 100.047%;\" data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYear\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit Count\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"3,1,0,0\"\u003eYears 1–2: Establishment\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,2,0\"\u003e0 Fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,3,0\"\u003eFocus on root growth. It is highly recommended to \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"50\" data-path-to-node=\"3,1,3,0\"\u003eremove\u003c\/b\u003e any fruit that sets during these years so the tree doesn't \"run out.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"3,2,0,0\"\u003eYear 3: First Harvest\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,2,0\"\u003e5 – 20 Fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,3,0\"\u003eThe tree is large enough to support a small \"sample\" crop. Staking may be needed to support the weight on young limbs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"3,3,0,0\"\u003eYears 4–5: Young Producer\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,2,0\"\u003e50 – 100 Fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,3,0\"\u003eThe tree begins to fill out its columnar shape. Yield becomes more consistent year-over-year.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"3,4,0,0\"\u003eYears 6–10: Increasing Maturity\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,2,0\"\u003e150 – 250 Fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,3,0\"\u003eThe canopy has hardened. At this stage, the tree typically produces \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"68\" data-path-to-node=\"3,4,3,0\"\u003e100+ lbs\u003c\/b\u003e of fruit annually.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.0816%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"3,5,0,0\"\u003eYear 10+: Full Maturity \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.9106%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,2,0\"\u003e300 – 500+ Fruit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 49.9922%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,3,0\"\u003eIn ideal conditions, a mature Bacon tree can produce \u003cb data-index-in-node=\"53\" data-path-to-node=\"3,5,3,0\"\u003e200 to 400 lbs\u003c\/b\u003e of avocados per season.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTORAGE\/SHELF LIFE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width: 99.9102%; height: 117.614px;\" data-path-to-node=\"2\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.5101%; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStage\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 46.0804%; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStorage Method\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 19.3417%; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShelf Life\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.5101%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\"\u003eUnripe (Hard\/Green)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 46.0804%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\"\u003eRoom Temperature (Countertop)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 19.3417%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,1,2,0\"\u003e3 to 5 days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.5101%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003eUnripe (Hard\/Green)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 46.0804%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003eRefrigerator (Crisper Drawer)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 19.3417%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\"\u003e7 to 10 days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.5101%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\"\u003eRipe (Soft\/Green)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 46.0804%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\"\u003eRoom Temperature (Countertop)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 19.3417%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,3,2,0\"\u003e1 to 2 days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.5101%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,4,0,0\"\u003eRipe (Soft\/Green)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 46.0804%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,1,0\"\u003eRefrigerator (Airtight container)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 19.3417%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,4,2,0\"\u003e2 to 3 days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.5101%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,5,0,0\"\u003eCut (Open Fruit)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 46.0804%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,1,0\"\u003eRefrigerator (Wrapped\/Sealed)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 19.3417%; text-align: center; height: 19.6023px;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,5,2,0\"\u003e24 hours\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCritical Storage \u0026amp; Handling Rules\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. \u003cstrong\u003eThe \"Feel\" Test (Not the \"Look\" Test): \u003c\/strong\u003eUnlike the Hass, which turns black when ready, the Bacon remains green when ripe. To check for ripeness, apply very gentle pressure near the stem end. If it yields slightly to the touch, it is ready. Do not wait for a color change, or the fruit will over-ripen and rot on your counter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. \u003cstrong\u003eThin-Skin Vulnerability:\u003c\/strong\u003e The skin of a Bacon avocado is very thin and brittle. It does not protect the flesh from bruising as well as the pebbly Hass skin. Avoid stacking them on top of each other in a bowl, as the weight of the top fruit can bruise the ones underneath, leading to grey or black spots in the flesh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. \u003cstrong\u003eManaging Oxidation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Because Bacon avocados have a slightly higher water content and lower oil content than Hass, they tend to oxidize (turn brown) faster once cut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIf you only use half, \u003cstrong\u003eleave the pit \u003c\/strong\u003ein the remaining half.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover the surface with a thin layer of olive oil or lemon juice and wrap tightly with plastic wrap, ensuring the wrap is touching the flesh.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4.\u003cstrong\u003e Refrigeration Limits:\u003c\/strong\u003e While you can store unripe Bacon avocados in the fridge to delay ripening, they are more susceptible to \"chilling injury\" than other varieties if kept near the back of the fridge where it is coldest. Keep them in the\u003cstrong\u003e produce crisper drawer\u003c\/strong\u003e to maintain a slightly more moderate temperature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\" style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePRUNING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1.\u003cstrong\u003e Structural Training (Years 1–3): \u003c\/strong\u003eThe goal for a young Bacon tree is to force it to branch out horizontally rather than just vertically.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTopping the Leader: \u003c\/strong\u003eOnce the tree reaches your desired \"shoulder height\" (usually around 3–4 feet), clip the central vertical leader. This breaks apical dominance and forces the tree to push out lateral (side) branches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScaffold Selection: \u003c\/strong\u003eChoose 3 to 4 strong side branches to be your \"scaffold\" limbs and remove any competing vertical shoots that try to take over as a new leader.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. \u003cstrong\u003eHeight Management (The \"Rule of 15\"): \u003c\/strong\u003eIn home orchards, it is common practice to keep Bacon trees at a maximum height of 12 to 15 feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeading Back: \u003c\/strong\u003eEvery year, identify the tallest vertical shoots and cut them back to a side-growing branch. This keeps the fruit within reach of a standard picking pole or ladder.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe Window Effect:\u003c\/strong\u003e If the tree becomes too tall, the lower branches often lose their leaves due to shading, leaving you with a \"lollipop\" tree. Keeping the top lowered ensures sunlight reaches the bottom of the canopy.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. \u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance Pruning (Annual)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSkirt Raising: \u003c\/strong\u003ePrune the lowest branches so they are at least 2 feet off the ground. This prevents \"Splash-up\" (soil-borne pathogens reaching the leaves) and keeps the fruit from resting on the mulch.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThinning the Interior:\u003c\/strong\u003e Remove \"twiggy\" or crossing growth from the center of the tree. Improving air circulation is the best defense against fungal diseases like anthracnose.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDead Wood: \u003c\/strong\u003eRemove any dead, diseased, or damaged (DDD) wood as soon as you see it, regardless of the season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. \u003cstrong\u003eTiming and Safety\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWhen to Prune:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ideal time is late winter or early spring, immediately after the fruit harvest but before the heavy spring bloom. Avoid pruning in mid-summer, as the sudden exposure to high heat can stress the tree.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe \"One-Third\" Rule:\u003c\/strong\u003e Never remove more than 25-30% of the canopy in one year. Excessive pruning can cause the tree to go into a \"vegetative shock\" where it produces lots of leaves but zero fruit for the next season.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5. \u003cstrong\u003eTool Care: \u003c\/strong\u003eAlways use sharp, sterilized bypass pruners or a pruning saw. Clean your tools with a 10% bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol between trees to prevent the spread of pathogens like Avocado Sunblotch Viroid or root rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePRUNING SUMMARY\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width: 100.047%;\" data-path-to-node=\"2\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePruning Type\/Timing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAction \/ Technique\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary Purpose\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStructural (Topping): \u003c\/strong\u003eYears 1–3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,2,0\"\u003eCut the central vertical leader at 3–4 feet high.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,3,0\"\u003eForces horizontal branching; prevents a \"telephone pole\" shape.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Late Winter\/ Early Spring\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\"\u003eRemove Dead, Diseased, or Damaged (DDD) wood.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,3,0\"\u003ePrevents rot and keeps the tree's energy focused on healthy growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e Annually (Post-Harvest)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,2,0\"\u003eHead back the tallest vertical shoots to a side branch.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,3,0\"\u003eKeeps the tree at a manageable 12–15 feet for easy harvesting.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInterior Thinning:\u003c\/strong\u003e Annually\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,2,0\"\u003eRemove \"twiggy\" or crossing branches from the center.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,4,3,0\"\u003eImproves airflow and light penetration to prevent fungal issues.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 32.7581%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSkirt Raising:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any Time\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,2,0\"\u003ePrune lower branches to be 2 feet above the ground.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,5,3,0\"\u003ePrevents soil-borne diseases from splashing onto the foliage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.7581%; text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,6,1,0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRejuvenation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Every 5–10 Years\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 34.2769%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,6,2,0\"\u003eHeavy thinning of the canopy (max 25-30% of total).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 32.9494%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,6,3,0\"\u003eReinvigorates older trees and encourages new fruiting wood.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cstyle\u003e \/* This targets the table and the cells inside it *\/ table, td { border: 1px solid #444444; \/* Dark gray border *\/ border-collapse: collapse; \/* This merges the double lines into one clean line *\/ } \/* Adding some padding so the text isn't touching the borders *\/ td { padding: 10px; } \u003c\/style\u003e","brand":"Texas Tree Farms","offers":[{"title":"3 Gallon","offer_id":55378226643112,"sku":null,"price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0517\/8359\/8248\/files\/5C6916EC-1D81-4225-BB17-AB7CC24360D0.jpg?v=1775311542","url":"https:\/\/texastreefarms.com\/products\/avocado-bacon","provider":"Texas Tree Farms","version":"1.0","type":"link"}