Your Go-To Calendar for California’s Avocado Season
If you’ve ever asked, “When are avocados harvested in California?” — you’re not alone. With the growing love for creamy, nutrient-rich Hass avocados, especially in health-focused kitchens and brunch spots across the country, it’s no wonder people want to know when their favorite fruit is in peak season.
In this guide, we break down the California avocado harvest season, explain why timing matters, and share tips to make the most of fresh, in-season Hass avocados.
A Quick Overview of California’s Avocado Industry
California is the largest producer of avocados in the United States, accounting for about 90% of the nation’s crop. Most of those avocados are the Hass variety, grown across coastal areas of Southern California — particularly in San Diego, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Riverside counties.
California avocados are prized for their:
- Creamy texture
- Mild, nutty flavor
- Nutritional density (rich in fiber, healthy fats, and potassium)
But when exactly are they harvested?
When Are California Hass Avocados Harvested?
🗓️ Primary Season: February through September
- Peak Harvest Months: March through July
- Shoulder Season: Late January – Early October
- Off-Season (Limited Supply): October – January
Harvesting starts in late winter and continues through early fall, depending on growing conditions. In warmer areas like San Diego, avocados may mature earlier, while in northern or higher elevation orchards, the harvest tends to be slightly delayed.
Why Is the Harvest Season So Long?
Unlike many fruits, avocados don’t ripen on the tree. This allows growers to leave them hanging longer and pick them in waves. California’s mild coastal climate enables an extended harvest window, ensuring freshness across several months.
A Month-by-Month Breakdown for Hass Lovers
| Month | Harvest Activity | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Jan–Feb | Early harvest begins | Small volume, rich in oil, early-season pricing |
| Mar–May | Peak harvest time | Best flavor, maximum availability |
| Jun–Jul | High supply | Excellent for summer dishes & value |
| Aug–Sep | Late-season harvest | Avocados with higher oil content |
| Oct–Dec | Low activity | Off-season; expect imports from Mexico or South America |
Why Seasonal Avocados Taste Better
Freshly harvested Hass avocados have:
- Higher oil content (especially later in the season)
- Better flavor depth
- Creamier texture
- Longer shelf life (when stored properly)
They also support local California farmers and reduce the environmental impact compared to imported avocados.
How to Know if You’re Buying California-Grown Avocados
Look for:
- “California” stickers or PLU codes (usually 4225 for Hass)
- In-season messaging at grocery stores or farmers markets
- Avocado shape: California Hass tends to be smaller and darker than imported varieties
- Retail campaigns: The California Avocado Commission actively promotes seasonal availability
Tips for Buying & Storing Avocados During Harvest Season
- Buy underripe avocados and let them ripen at home for 3–5 days at room temperature.
- To speed ripening, place avocados in a brown paper bag with a banana.
- Once ripe, store in the fridge to slow further ripening and extend shelf life by a few days.
- Keep cut avocados fresh by brushing with lemon juice and covering tightly.
Favorite Seasonal Recipes for California Hass Avocados
Make the most of your in-season avocados with these tried-and-true recipes:
- 🥑 Classic Guacamole with Fresh Cilantro & Lime
- 🥗 Avocado, Tomato & Mozzarella Salad
- 🍞 Avocado Toast with Poached Egg & Chili Flakes
- 🌯 Grilled Chicken & Avocado Wraps
- 🍦 Avocado Coconut Ice Cream (Yes, really!)
Explore more Healthy Avocado Recipes →
Fun Facts About California Avocados
- California avocados are hand-harvested using poles and picking bags.
- A single mature avocado tree can produce up to 200 avocados per year.
- The average avocado takes 12–18 months to grow from flower to harvest.
- The Hass variety was discovered by chance in California in the 1920s — from a single tree!
Final Thoughts: Savoring the Season
If you’re a true avocado lover, there’s no better time to indulge than California harvest season. The peak months of March through July offer unbeatable flavor, quality, and freshness — not to mention a chance to support local agriculture and enjoy the fruit at its best.
So next time you’re shopping for avocados, check the label, embrace the season, and enjoy your Hass with pride.
References
- California Avocado Commission – https://californiaavocado.com
- USDA Agricultural Marketing Service – Seasonal Reports
- UC Agriculture and Natural Resources – Avocado Production Guidelines
- Specialty Produce – Hass Avocado Seasonality
