Welcome to Mr Aslanov’s cefr lessons

 
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, although the Hass cultivar can tolerate 
temperatures down to 1°C. The trees also need well aerated soils, ideally more than 1 m deep. Yield is 
reduced when the irrigation water is highly saline. 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 that fall 
off the tree ripen on the ground. Generally, the fruit is picked once it reaches maturity. Avocados used in 
commerce are picked hard and green and kept in coolers until they reach their final destination. 
 
Q5. Avocados are often grown from pits. This is done by removing the pit from a ripe, unrefrigerated 
avocado. The pit is then stabbed with three or four tooth picks, about one third of the way up. The pit is 
placed in a jar or vase with tepid water. In four to six weeks, it should split and out should come roots and 
a sprout. Once the stem has grown a few inches, it is placed in a pot with soil. It should be watered every 
few days. Avocados have been known to grow large, so owners must be ready to repot the plant several 
times. 
Q6. The fruit is not sweet, but fatty, and distinctly yet subtly flavoured. It is used in both savoury and 
sweet dishes, though in many countries not for both. The avocado is very popular in vegetarian cuisine as 
substitute for meats because of its high fat content. Generally, avocado is served raw, though some 
cultivars can be cooked for a short time without becoming bitter. In Ethiopia, avocados are made into juice 
by mixing them with sugar and milk or water. Avocados are also used to make salads.