TEST 53 Questions 1-7. Match the following headings (A-H) to the texts (Q1-Q7). Note: There is one extra heading which you do not need to use. HEADINGS: A) Harvest B) Etymology C) Toxicity D) Growing indoors E) Breeding F) Cultivation G) Culinary uses H) History Q1. The avocado originated in Mexico. The native uncultivated variety is small, with dark black skin, and
contains a large seed. The oldest evidence of avocado use, which dates to around 10000 BC, was found in a
cave in Mexico. The avocado tree also has a long period of cultivation in Central and South America. A
water jar shaped like an avocado, dating to AD 900, was discovered in the pre-Incan city of Chan Chan.
Q2. The word ‘avocado’ comes from the Spanish ‘aguacate’. Avocados were known by the Aztecs as ‘the
fertility fruit’. In some countries of South America, such as Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay,
the avocado is known by its Quechua name ‘palta’. The fruit is sometimes called an ‘avocado pear’ or
‘alligator pear’ due to its shape and the rough green skin. It is known as ‘Butter Fruit’ in parts of India.
Q3. The avocado tree does not tolerate freezing temperatures, and can be grown only in subtropical or tropical
climates. High winds reduce the humidity, dehydrate the flowers, and affect pollination. When even a mild
frost occurs, premature fruit drop may occur. The trees also need well-aerated soils, ideally more than 1 m
deep. These soil and climate conditions are available only in a few areas of the world..
Q4. An average avocado tree produces about 500 avocados annually. Commercial orchards produce an average
of seven tonnes per hectare each year, with some orchards achieving 20 tonnes per hectare. The avocado is
a climacteric fruit, which means it matures on the tree, but ripens off the tree. Avocados used in commerce
are picked hard and green and kept in coolers until they reach their final destination.
