Just about one year ago, in February 2017, Janice Person came to visit our farm. It was her very first visit to an avocado farm, and the Southern California was dressed up in green, with lots of wild flowers and gorgeous scenery due to all the wonderful rain. I was hobbling around on my bad knee, waiting for my meniscus surgery date. We had a great time together, but neither of us ever got around to writing about that day. We decided to share our experience with you this weekend, both at the same time, because once again it’s February in the avocado grove!
I met Janice at the Produce Marketing Association conference in 2012. I remember the year because I had just started blogging, and I was thrilled to have the chance to go to the largest fresh produce trade show in the world. The Idaho Potato Commission made it possible for 30 bloggers to have a press pass and attend the educational sessions as well as the trade show. That one opportunity led to so many other wonderful experiences, including my trip to Idaho for the potato harvest.
But back to Janice. She and I actually met on Twitter. We found each other because we’re both interested in all things agriculture. Janice blogs at JPLovesCotton.com and works in agriculture as well. We discovered via Twitter that we were both at the PMA conference, so we met up for an in-person chat! I told her if she ever had a chance to visit, just let me know. (Don’t you just love how social media can help us make new friends?)
Fast forward to 2017, and Janice made good on her promise to visit. It’s hard to imagine a person with more enthusiam for avocado trees! We walked through the trees, talking about how avocado grow and what kinds of challenges avocado farmers face. She has visited so many different kinds of farming operations, she knew all the right questions to ask.
We gave her a picking bag, a picking pole and some clippers and taught her how to harvest avocados. We discussed oil content and how that affects the ripening of avocados. We talked about the difference between maturity of the fruit on the tree, and the softening of avocados so they can be enjoyed in a meal. We even sat down for lunch to try some fresh avocado, and visited with The Farmer over lunch. Avocado with everything! Did I mention that Janice is one of the MOST enthusiastic avocado lovers I have ever met?
I saw Janice a few weeks ago at a meeting where we were talking about how to make videos for social media to tell true stories about agriculture. Today she sent me a blog post she wrote about last year’s visit. AND she made a really nice video too! Here’s a link to her post, so you can get HER side of the story! https://janiceperson.com/food/avocado-farm/
I’m so glad Janice came last year after all the wonderful rain. This year we are still hoping for more rain, but it’s beginning to look dismal. Usually our rain comes between December and March, leaching salts that have built up in the soil, germinating the wild flower seeds (or as some farmers call them: weeds), and giving the farmers a break from irrigating.
I’m still hoping that these pretty little blossoms will show up this year. (this photo was taken last year)
The baby avocado trees we planted a few months ago are already blooming, as are some of the more mature trees. The warm weather has them confused that it’s springtime already. The crop for 2018 is looking great, and we’ll be harvesting some delicious fruit this year. We’re already enjoying the Fuertes. Janice decided that Fuerte was her favorite variety when she was here. I agree with her, especially in February when they’re in season!

February 4, 2018 at 11:00 am
Love seeing your perspective on the trip and remember all the pretty wildflowers, etc… It was surreal to see so much green in Southern Cal!
Thanks again for all the hospitality… still need to find that salty/spicy sprinkle to use… have been testing a few to see which tastes yummiest with my avocados!
February 4, 2018 at 3:31 pm
The one we use is actually a blend to use for roast beef. I’ll have to remember to send you some. Or better yet, come back and we’ll get some!
February 4, 2018 at 12:17 pm
I could feel Janice’s enthusiasm for the Fuertes avocado so I just ordered some for myself! I’m sitting here in my den up north of Sacramento in Chico and it is sunny and warm today. Like you I’m hoping we get more rain before all the trees around here get fooled into thinking it’s spring already.
February 4, 2018 at 3:30 pm
It’s such a gorgeous warm day here! Have been out driving around in the RTV to see the ducks on the reservoir. Grandson loves the Quack Quacks! Enjoy your Fuertes! Amazing flavor! and thanks for ordering from CaliforniaAvocadosDirect.com
October 29, 2019 at 9:50 am
I am trying to find the ordering site, and cannot. Please email me with your information and where you are located. I am interested in ordering FUERTES.
Thank you,
Mrs. Wheaton
[email protected]
November 23, 2019 at 11:07 am
http://www.CaliforniaAvocadosDirect.com is the website for ordering avocados.
February 9, 2018 at 9:36 am
What a great post! Visiting your farm is such a treat! I love that you are sharing.
February 10, 2018 at 11:20 am
What a fun experience! Everything looks so beautiful.
March 9, 2018 at 5:51 pm
What an experience for visitors and fun for us to read and see the pictures.
thanks for sharing your fun time at Avocado farm.
The love sign avocado looks cool.
November 13, 2018 at 4:49 am
great story about travel and California avocado. enjoyed reading it.
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