Yes, it looks like LW. Contact me: jasons@ufl.edu and I will give you more detailed information. Laurel wilt is one my major foci of my research program and can bring you to speed on the most recent developments. Do you happen to know the cultivar? Cut into the sapwood and look for streaking. Do you see evidence of the ambrosia beetles yet?? (frass and small holes)

I understand. But, again, you'll probably get more responses if you post to the other two forums. Many issues with the avocado - that you have all kinds of "stuff" planted underneath. They are even less tolerant than citrus with regard to having their roots disturbed. Absolutely not recommended to be digging up under the tree to plant annuals. Pull out all that stuff, mulch well, make sure the tree stays well watered, but is not soggy. And, they like to be fertilized more frequently than citrus, so be sure to follow recommendations for your area with regard to fertilizing avocados. Also, helps to know where you are in the country as well, so we can better advise, as well as what cultivar avocado we're dealing with. Patty S.

Probably not any down side to planting now. Won't do much till spring. I planted two a few years back and got quite a few fruit off of one of them just this last season. They are quite cold hardy so that was a great choice in variety. When I planted mine, I dug out an extra sized pit and put some top soil material in the extra space to provide something besides just sand to give the roots a head start. Good luck! Dave

Mom Dont let the last winter or 2 fool ya. February 10 2011 the low was -12 here in tulsa. There is an avocado called Lila that it said to be hardy to 17 degrees. Personally I think the term hardy is mis understood. For one it is usually for mature plants. Sure that avocado may be able to survive a brief dip to 17 degree, like a couple hours, but i really doubt it can see that temperature for days and not be killed. that is the problem with Oklahoma. For the most part we could get away with growing Zone 8 or 9 stuff but all it takes is one week of Arctic air and those plants are toast. You could try a cold hardy avocado but for $50 bucks I would rather get a Haas or something that is well know for its flavor and just keep it small in a pot. I only use a handful of Avocado a year anyways. A 6 foot tall tree could produce a couple dozen or more easily. mike