giant avocados: old trees, new debates in our backyards

When I look at my old avocado tree, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s garden—a place where every fruit felt like a gift from nature. Today, my tree produces avocados so big, they spark conversations every time I share them with neighbors. Some folks say these giant fruits are a marvel, a testament to the rich Californian soil and the patience of years gone by. Others, especially younger gardeners, argue that newer, grafted varieties are more practical—smaller, easier to manage, and better suited for our changing climate. I can’t help but feel a tug of nostalgia as I watch the seasons change and remember the days when families would gather under the shade of a single, sprawling tree. But times are different now. Community rules sometimes frown on large, messy trees, and there’s a growing debate: Should we preserve these old giants for their history and beauty, or make way for tidy, modern landscapes? This spring, as I picked another basket of oversized avocados, I wondered—are we losing something precious in our rush for convenience? Or is it time to embrace new methods that fit our busy lives and smaller yards? I’d love to hear your stories: Do you cherish your family’s old trees, or have you made the switch to new varieties? Let’s talk about what we gain—and what we might lose—when tradition meets change in our gardens. #avocadotree #gardeningdebate #familytradition #Gardening