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There was just a group of Florida researchers here in California sharing their experiences with ambrosia beetles and a fungal disease in avocado and other members of the laurel family. This is a pest/disease complex similar to that found here caused by a shot hole borer and fusarium.

During the first week of August, the California Avocado Society, Inc., California Avocado Commission, University of California Cooperative Extension hosted six Laurel wilt researchers from the University of Florida.

Many growers don't hear about the amount of research and extension activity that is going on surrounding the Shot Hole Borers and Fusarium Dieback. This pest/disease complex affects not only avocados, but many other tree species, including many California natives.

Photo: Sun Blotch Branch Sun-blotch, a viroid disease affecting the avocado, was observed as early as 1914 in Southern California. Sun-blotch is widespread in California, and likely to be found in all districts where avocados are being grown.

Avocado trees can appear completely covered with flowers.