From my perspective, avocado farmers fall into three distinct categories: intensive, average, and passive producers.
Those who invest more time and attention in their farms inevitably see higher returns. I understand this may not be your main focus, but you can’t expect the results of an intensive farmer without matching their level of effort.
Over the last 8 years, I have met plenty of avocado farmers from India and Israel, and the most successful ones, all had these 7 things in common –
1. Daily farm visits initially
As an avocado farmer in India, you do not have access to borrowed experience. I share as much as I can, but micro climatic conditions and soil type varies in different regions of the country, so my content can only take you so far. Therefore, initially you should visit your farm daily.
My mentor Benny said this to me a long time ago, that the farm will teach you everything.
Through consistent visits, you will learn to read the pulse of your avocado farm. Over time, you’ll learn to predict seasonal challenges and take proactive steps to handle them in advance.
This cannot be done passively. Yes, passive income is possible, but only after a few years of active involvement.
2. Planning fertigation ahead of time
Fertigation requirements change with every phenological stage as well as the age of the plant. You have to plan well in advance and stock up the required fertilizers beforehand. To learn how to apply Israeli fertigation techniques, we have created a course along with 2 experts from Israel. Hedva Avishai and Lior Avishai. Its digital and self paced. You can enroll for the digital course here.
3. Research & Action
All the good growers that I have met in Israel and India spend time researching before making a decision regarding any of the practices. A lot of information is available online or in books. I, personally have shared over 200 videos and blog posts on my experiences in avocado farming.
These days, from the farmers who visit my orchard and nursery, I can tell who is going to be a successful one and who is not, just on the basis of questions they ask. Here is a useful resource that might help –
4. Maintenance of Infrastructure
Infrastructure, like drip lines, fertigation system, filtration system or tractors can malfunction anytime if not maintained properly. Drip lines, for example, need to be cleaned with acid at least once or twice every year. Tractors also require regular maintenance.
5. Farm cleanliness & hygiene management
Regular weeding is necessary particularly because of 2 reasons
- prevents unwanted insects, pests, diseases and fungus
- a beautiful farm is relaxing to look at, and will motivate you to go to the farm frequently
Pro tip: Use white weed mat, not only does it protects the trees from weeds, it also keeps the rootzone cool during the summer season. And it looks good.
6. Eagerness to learn and share experience
Avocado farming in India is quite novel. There is no knowledge base or resource apart from my blog where the Indian Avocado farmers can learn from. If we want to grow this industry in a sustainable manner it is advisable to share your experience ideally on social media or privately to each other.
Hope this helps.
Thanks for reading
– Harshit
