We suddenly have three very unhappy sickly looking Avocado trees. They are looking very droopy, have dropped a lot of foliage (mostly yellowed leaves but new growth is evident in some places) and what fruit they have are very small. Up until this last year they have been great?

Hi Ted 

Avocados are susceptible to root rot and require good drainage. Phytopthora or root rot can enter through the roots when the tree has gone through a period of drought, then has been watered which in turn causes the roots to swell and burst. Then the disease enters. Consistent watering is best especially during dry spells, but more important is good drainage.

Avocados are also frost tender, have you experienced heavy frosts this winter? Frost can cause the tree to defoliate. Once they are established they are more tolerant of frost. Regular applications of Tui Organic Seaweed Plant Tonic will help the tree keep pests and disease at bay as well as stimulating root growth. Apply every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. We also suggest giving your avocados a good feed the end of winter. Tui Novatec Premium Fertiliser is a great all purpose fertiliser for avocados. 

Thanks, Tui Team