The demand for avocados has been growing more and more in recent years. It is an excellent source of plant fat, and in addition, it contains many vitamins and minerals. But it's not only a healthy fruit but also a find for plant lovers, as it is an easy example of growing a plant from a seed. And many people encounter interest in growing an avocado tree, even inexperienced ones. Let's figure out how to do this.
Methods of Growing an Avocado From Seed
Avocado is an unpretentious tree, and it will not be difficult for you to germinate it. There are also several ways to sprout it.
How to Sprout an Avocado Seed with Toothpicks
Despite the variety of methods, this one remains the most popular. The option can be a little tricky, but it has the highest percentage of success. So, how to sprout an avocado seed with toothpicks.
- Take a small glass large enough for the pit to fit in;
- Pour filtered or distilled water;
- Take a sharp object (awl or needle) and make four holes about 2 mm deep at different ends of the avocado seeds;
- Stick long toothpicks or skewers in there;
- Place avocado seeds in water;
- This way, the blunt end of the avocado will be in the water, and the toothpicks will keep the seed from sinking. The critical point is that you must not let the holes get wet, or the avocado will rot;
- Change the water in the glass every few days. The container itself should be in a reasonably sunny place;
- The root sprout process usually takes a few weeks, but don't be discouraged if it takes a month. It is also quite normal;
- After the root has reached 3-4 centimeters in length, you can transplant the seed into a pot with soil.
How to Grow an Avocado Seed in a Cup
- You need to clean the pit so as not to damage the inner fruit;
- Fill the glass with water to just touch the bottom of the pit;
- Wait a few weeks until the root starts to sprout.
How to Grow an Avocado Seed with a Paper Towel in a Plastic Bag
- You can also use a paper towel for germinating the roots;
- Dampen the paper towel;
- Turn the pit inside;
- Place the seeds in a zippered bag;
- You must store the bone until the roots reach two to three centimeters.
The Easiest Way to Grow Avocado (Just in Soil)
It is the easiest way, but it may not work.
- Just put an avocado seed in the soil. Two-thirds of the fruit should remain on the surface;
- Everything, now you only need to water the pot every few days;
Even though this is the easiest way, you must be patient. The thing is that this method takes much more time. The roots will germinate only after two to three months.
How to Grow an Avocado Tree: Next Steps
Once you've sprouted roots from your avocado seed, it's time to plant it in the ground. It is better to clarify that the tree will not grow large when growing a seed at home in a pot, so it will hardly bear fruit. However, it can be an excellent decoration for your interior. To grow a large and healthy tree that can produce fruit, avocados must be replanted and cared for. But first things first.
Choose the Right Pot
- First, take a plastic or ceramic pot.
- Drainage is essential, as avocados can rot if the water stagnates.
- For the first time, the depth of the bank should be no more than 15 cm.
Which Soil to Choose?
Avocados are very fond of loose soil. Therefore, you can mix the soil with coarse sand or even peat. It is also worth clarifying that the pH should be neutral.
Plant a Seed
- Make a slight indentation on the surface. This small hole should not be too deep because you should place it halfway. In no case should the roots be damaged during planting.
- Now you can water the plant. Do not wholly bury the pit with earth, and also do not pour too much water. Otherwise, the avocado will soon become moldy and rot.
- The pot with the plant should be placed on the sunny side.
How to Properly Care for Avocados?
- Water your plant regularly; don't let the soil dry out completely. Watering once every 3-4 days is ideal for avocados in warm weather. If the weather is scorching, it is worth increasing the watering time.
- Please do not put the plant in the shade. Otherwise, its growth will slow down.
- You will need to spray the leaves as soon as you see sprouts. Please do it in the morning and evening as long as it's not hot.
At first, the avocado will grow rapidly, but at one point, you will notice that the growth rate has slowed down significantly. Don't worry. However, when the plant has more than eight leaves, it is necessary to remove the top with scissors. It will allow the crown to develop correctly.
How to Transplant an Avocado?
Avocados need to be repotted quite often. You will have to do this at least once in the first year at a fast pace. For the first six years, this procedure should be carried out annually. Choose a pot 5-10 centimeters larger in diameter.
To transplant a grown tree, you must dig a large enough hole in the ground. The soil should be loose and not contain any other plant debris or roots. Carefully remove the seedling from the pot, and try not to damage the root system. The bottom of the seedling should be sprinkled a little with earth and watered.
How to Help Avocados to Bear Fruit
With proper care, the tree can begin to bloom. It usually happens not earlier than after 5-6 years. Avocados often bloom best when grown outdoors. Growers can help the tree pollinate the flowers. It is best to take a very soft brush and draw over the flowers.
It would be best if you repeated the procedure a few times.
Even if you are not particularly sure that the spray was successful, then do not worry. The fact is that under natural conditions, avocados do not produce too many fruit ovaries. But you can try again at the next bloom!
FAQ
How Long Does It Take to Grow an Avocado?
If you are growing your avocado from the seed, it will likely take at least 4-5 years for the tree to grow.
How to Germinate Avocado Seeds Fast?
The fastest method is considered to be with toothpicks that pierce the seed. It takes about two to three weeks until roots appear.
Can You Plant Seed from a Store-Bought Avocado?
Of course! Most growers don't go to the store for specialty seeds or anything like that. You can grow a purchased avocado seed!
Which End of Avocado Seed Goes in the Water?
The smoother and rounder end of the avocado seed should go into the water. The sharper end should always point upwards. But the blunt and soft reverse side is the site of root germination.
