Florida Avocados: More than Guacamole
by Beth Davis W
ith its dense, creamy texture and sweet, buttery, slightly nutty taste, it’s no wonder
the Florida avocado is often considered a luxurious, indulgent treat. Don’t be fooled by the richness of this tropical fruit, though—it is a healthy food that can be enjoyed often.
Avocados have no cholesterol and are a good source of protein, B-vita- mins, folic acid and vitamins C and E, which are powerful antioxidants.
Ounce-for-ounce, they offer 60 per- cent more potassium than bananas—a mineral helpful for maintaining normal blood pressure—and they’re high in fiber, which can help with weight con- trol and may lower the risk of certain cancers.
According to the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricul- tural Sciences (IFAS) Extension, more than 56 different varieties of Florida avocados grow in the Sunshine State, many with a lower fat content than those from other states and countries. In general, Florida varieties have 50 percent less fat and 30 percent fewer calories than their California cousins. Here in Southwest Florida, this delectable fruit is readily available and can be easily grown in backyards with minimal effort, a fact attested to by local tropical fruit grower and nursery owner Frank DeNardis. Nearly 20 years ago, DeNardis began growing and selling tropical fruit as a hobby. Now,
at 88, he tends to more than 80 organi- cally grown trees on his 1.25-acre lot in North Naples, including 12 varieties of avocados that he enjoys from Thanks- giving until March or April. “Growing avocado trees is very easy,” says DeNardis, who has a wholesale license to sell his trees. “The main thing is, you have to water them. You can’t just rely on your sprinkler system.” He explains that, because the roots of the trees go down at least a foot, a sprinkler will not provide enough water to reach them. Trevor Parks, vice president of the Bonita Springs Tropical Fruit Club, agrees. “Lack of water is one of the things most people do wrong when
26 Collier/Lee Counties
swfl.naturalawakeningsmag.com
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