Growing an avocado tree from a pit is not just a childhood experiment; it’s a delightful gardening journey. And although the plant won’t bear fruit, you’ll still have a new addition to add to your collection of green babies.
Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to turn that avocado pit into a thriving tree in your garden:
1. Start with the right avocado
Begin by enjoying the delicious green flesh of an avocado. After relishing the goodness, gently wash off the seed. Take note of the tapered top and flatter bottom of the seed.
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2. Secure with toothpicks
Insert toothpicks around the centre of the seed, creating a stable base. Make sure they penetrate about 0.635 – 1.27 cm into the seed, with two to three toothpicks evenly spaced. This setup will allow you to suspend the seed over water.
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3. Water and wait
Place the avocado seed, bottom-end down, over a jar or glass filled with water. Use the toothpicks to keep it in place, ensuring about an inch of the seed is submerged. Keep the jar in a warm spot away from direct sunlight. Change the water every four or five days to prevent bacteria growth.
4. Let roots develop
In about eight weeks, roots will sprout from the bottom, followed by a slender green shoot emerging from the top. If nothing happens, start anew with another seed.
5. Trim and plant
When the seedling reaches 15-17 cm tall, cut the stem in half, promoting new growth. Plant the seedling in a 25 cm wide pot with drainage holes, leaving the top half of the seed exposed. Water the soil thoroughly.
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Avocado tree care tips
Light: Place your potted avocado seedling in a sunny window or move it outside when the temperature is above 10℃. Keep it in partial shade outdoors to avoid leaf burn.
Soil and water: Check soil moisture by feeling the top layer. Water deeply when it feels dry. Don’t let the pot sit in water, as it can lead to root rot.
Temperature and humidity: Avocado trees thrive in temperatures between 15 – 30℃ with medium to high humidity. For outdoor planting, consider high-humidity areas in your garden with lots of sunlight.
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Fertiliser: During summer, use a nitrogen-rich fertiliser weekly, with added zinc. Avoid fertilising in winter when growth is minimal.
Pruning: Encourage bushier growth by pruning regularly. Cut back every 6 inches of growth, ensuring a well-shaped tree.
Repotting: As your avocado tree grows, gently repot it in larger containers, increasing its diameter gradually. Use fresh potting mix during repotting.
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Originally published in Garden&Home Magazine.
