Looking to try your hand at growing an avocado tree in your backyard? Then I have the perfect variety for you. The Gem avocado tree has grown in popularity over the last couple of years due to its size when it reaches maturity and the hardiness of the fruit it produces.
In this post, I’ll take you through an in-depth look at the Gem avocado, ranging from how to grow it, where you can purchase them, and why they make a great addition to your garden.
Characteristic of the Gem Avocado
Over the last couple of years, a new avocado has been rising in popularity, the Gem avocado.
When ripe, the Gem avocado will appear to have black skin with flecks of gold and be 7 to 11 ounces once fully grown. It also contains a medium seed, leaving you with a larger amount of “pulp.”
Characteristics of the Gem Avocado Tree
The Gem avocado tree is quite unique. Unlike other varieties of avocado, which need a larger area of land due to their height and size, the Gem avocado tree is perfect for a smaller garden.
The tree is semi-compact and vase-shaped, and the Gem avocado grows mostly in clusters within the interior. This allows the foliage to protect the fruit from the elements.
The Gem avocado tree is relatively “consistent bearing.” Meaning the Gem avocado tree produces a similar amount of fruit yearly.
This will leave you with more fruit to eat or freeze for use during the colder months.
The Gem avocado is rich in flavor, texture, and aroma. So, if you want a versatile option to add to your everyday diet, this fruit is a great choice.
The Gem is known to be one of the richest, creamiest avocadoes out there. Which, when ripe, will melt in your mouth, leaving a slightly sweet taste. Not only does it taste good, but the semi-sweet nutty smell will leave you wanting more.
How You Can Use the Gem Avocado
The Gem avocado is one of those fruits you can use in multiple ways.
Did you know you can grill avocado? Grilling warms up the fat, causing it to tenderize. This is also a great option for underripe Gem avocados. Just throw it on the grill; once you take it off, you’ll have a perfectly creamy avocado.
Craving something crunchy but don’t want to give in to those greasy potato chips? Not a problem, that fruit that you just pulled off your Gem avocado tree or picked up at your local market can be breaded and fried. Giving you that crunchy texture you were craving.
It’s also a great choice for that one picky eater we all know, especially if you have children. It’s hard to find stuff they like, but that’s also healthy. You can even use the Gem avocado to make sweet treats without adding sugar.
Recipes like these mini, banana, avocado and apple muffins are sweetened only by the apple sauce of your choosing and banana.
Who does like, a healthy, tasty breakfast? We’ve got a yummy avocado toast recipe that the whole family will love.
If none of those sounds like what you’re looking for, it’s not a problem. Here are some more ideas to help you start your journey into using the Gem avocado.
Health Benefits of the Gem Avocado
Avocado is one of the most popular fruits for a healthy diet. It contains healthy fats and nutrients that can help reduce obesity, diabetes, heart disease and promote healthy skin, hair, and nails.
Gem avocados are a great source of vitamins C, E, K, and B6, as well as potassium, magnesium, and others. These vitamins are vital for brain health, blood flow, cellular generation, a healthy immune system, metabolism, and more.
Avocados also contain beta-sitosterol; it’s naturally derived from plants and can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
For more information on this subject, read our blog posts on the Health Benefits of Avocados and Avocado Nutrition.
How to Grow a Gem Avocado Tree at Home
The Gem avocado tree is one of the easiest to grow in an average-sized backyard. This is because they only grow to about 4 feet and are relatively compact, and they won’t take up too much room if you decide to plant one or two trees.
The seeds of the Gem avocado tree are hard to find, which might be because it takes 5 to 13 years to mature. It’s recommended to purchase a small tree around 2 to 3 feet and replant it in your garden.
The good news is that once you have a mature tree, it’ll yield a similar amount of fruit every year.
If you’re looking for a more in-depth look at taking care of avocado trees, check out our guide on How to Grow an Avocado Tree.
Sizing and Space
Per one Gem avocado tree, you’ll need a 10×10 area, giving it enough room to grow. The good news is one tree is all it takes.
Gem Avocado Tree Care
The Gem avocado tree needs average care. However, they thrive in weather similar to that found in Southern California.
The following sections will give you highlights on Gem avocado care.
Our Avocado Tree Care guide will help you with the step-by-step process by taking you through the specifics of caring for your tree.
Sunlight
The Gem avocado trees need six hours of sunlight per day. They thrive in bright, unfiltered light but can tolerate some shade.
Soil
Avocado trees do in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6 to 6.8.
Use soil that will allow the tree to maintain moisture; peat moss, coconut coir, bark, perlite, and sand are all great options.
Water
Water your Gem avocado tree regularly/deeply. Let the tree dry out slightly before watering again. Mulch your trees with 3 to 4 inches of coarse wood to help conserve the water.
Pruning
You won’t have to prune your Avocado trees often. Keep an eye out for brittle or dying branches, and cut as needed.
If you’re intimidated by the idea of pruning, don’t worry! Our post, How to Prune an Avocado Tree, will give you everything you need to prune like a pro.
Pests and Diseases
Like all fauna, you’ll want to look for signs of garden pests and diseases.
Our guide on Avocado Tree Pests will help you spot, eliminate and deter the most common pests that may target your tree.
Avocados are susceptible to certain diseases. To help identify the early signs and take the necessary action, we have a guide on Avocado Diseases to learn about common ones and what to do if they happen.
Harvest
Once your Gem avocado tree starts to flower, it will be around 9 months for the fruit to appear.
Where to Buy a Gem Avocado Tree
Since the Gem avocado is newer to market, a limited number of places sell the trees for replanting; however a few outlets do carry them.
I’d also recommend checking local nurseries and specialty stores.
Where to Buy Gem Avocado Fruit
Finding an already-harvested Gem avocado will be a little easier. You can sometimes find them at local grocery stores, produce wholesalers, and online.
Here are a couple of places you can order from.
Looking for More?
If you’re looking to add something new and exciting to your garden, then the Gem avocado tree is perfect for you. Full of nutrition and a sweet, unique taste, makes it a perfect dietary addition.
At Minneopa Orchards, we pride ourselves on being your go-to for all your gardening needs; from taking care of your Gem avocado tree to picking, storing, and freezing, we have it all. We even have posts with information on avocados and your furry friends.
Excited for more avocado content? Then check out my avocado page for more growing tips, info guides, and great recipes!
Bert
Monday 20th of February 2023
I am interested in buying a gem avocado tree. where can i order one...thank you
Matt
Saturday 25th of February 2023
You can buy one here.