Avocado Tree Flowering and Fruit Set in California

Pollination Biology

Avocado flowers are dichogamous: Type A (female morning, male next afternoon) and Type B (female afternoon, male next morning). A single tree may not overlap its own male/female phases, leading to poor self-pollination.

What to Expect

• Flowers appear Jan–Mar; each panicle sets 1–3 fruit.
• Cross-pollination (Type A + Type B) greatly improves yield.
• Cool weather reduces bee activity and fruit set.
• Some cultivars bear biennially.

Action

Wait and observe. If fruit doesn't set, consider planting a complementary type (e.g., 'Hass' Type A + 'Fuerte' Type B) nearby.

Reference

California Rare Fruit Growers: Avocado Pollination.