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Avocado is a popular fruit in Sri Lanka, especially in the wet zone, where it thrives due to its tolerance to rainfall and relatively low maintenance requirements. The tree, known locally as “Aligetapera,” is a popular choice for home gardens due to its adaptability and few pest/disease problems. The avocado tree is an evergreen, reaching heights of 25 meters. Its leaves are elliptic, often crowded at the ends of branches, and the fruit is a large, pear-shaped berry that can be green or purple.
Here’s a more detailed look at the avocado in Sri Lanka:
Introduction and History:
- While the exact introduction date is not fully documented, avocados were likely introduced during the Dutch occupation, over 200 years ago.
- The first recorded introduction was in 1927 during the British occupation, with several varieties being introduced later.
- The island’s wet zone climate, particularly its tolerance to rainfall during flowering, makes it ideal for avocado cultivation.
Plant Characteristics:
- The avocado tree is a large, evergreen, dome-shaped tree.
- Leaves are oval or elliptical, arranged in a spiral on the tips of branches.
- Flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and perfect (having both male and female parts).
- Fruits are large, fleshy, pear-shaped, and can range in color from green to purple.
Cultivation:
- Avocados are commonly grown in home gardens in the wet zone of Sri Lanka.
- They are generally easy to grow, with few pest and disease problems.
- The tree can take 4-6 years to produce fruit when grown from seed, while grafted plants may produce fruit within 1-2 years.
- Avocados are commonly grown in home gardens in the wet zone of Sri Lanka.
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