This article outlines the growth and production characteristics of avocado trees with a look at how the trees thrive in their natural habitat — the rainforest. To aid growers in developing effective cultural management practices, the article then expands upon the importance of avocado tree roots and where they exist within the soil, how to set up fruiting potential and how to counteract the trees’ tendency to alternate bearing with pruning, nutrient management, and optimal pollinization.