AVOCADO 



277 



Orchards. — Some distances between trees in different orchards 

 are 35, 26, and 21 feet. Sandersha and Cambodiana are good 

 varieties which are less affected by weather during blossom season. 

 Mulgoba is a standard variety of very high quality. Other good 

 varieties are Harden, Arnini, and Bennett. See description of 

 these in the above mentioned bulletin. In the Standard Cyclo- 

 pedia of Horticulture is a good account of mango culture. 



Avocado. — This is a valuable fruit, grown extensively in many 

 tropical countries. Certain forms are found native in Mexico and 



Fig. 193. — A good variety of Avocado averages over one pound in weight. The trees 

 blossom in the spring, and the fruit is mature in a little over one year. It may be held on the 

 tree several months longer. (U.S.D.A.) 



Central America and are grown commercially as far north as 

 Florida and Southern California. 



The trees are large and produce fine shade. The pear-shaped 

 fruits vary in size from one to six inches in diameter (Fig. 193). 

 The skin may be soft and pliable or hard and shell-like. There is 

 one large seed in a fruit which in some cases does not fill the seed 

 cavity. The firm, yellowish pulp is rich in flavor, and is highly 

 prized and nutritious. The large percentage of vegetable oil which 



