If you want to grow your own avocado tree from a seed, keep the seed after eating the avocado. While it takes patience and the right conditions, seeing the little sprout emerge and transform into a sturdy tree is extremely satisfying. Here’s everything you need to know about planting an avocado seed successfully.
- Step 1 – Prepare the Seed.
- Step 2 – Peel Back the Seed Coating.
- Step 3 – Place in Bag & Keep Moist.
- Step 4 – Monitor Root Formation.
- Step 5 – Move into Sunlight.
- Step 6 – Prune.
- Step 7 – Pot Up.
Preparing the Avocado Seed
Removing the Seed
The first step is to extract the pit or seed from a ripe avocado. As you’re eating the avocado, gently remove the large brown seed from the middle, being careful not to slice into it with your knife. Rinse off any remaining avocado flesh clinging to the seed.
Curing the Seed
Next, you need to “cure” the avocado seed for several weeks before planting. This curing process helps wake up the embryo inside the hard seed coating.
- Use three toothpicks inserted into the seed at a slight angle to suspend it over a glass or jar filled with warm water. The toothpicks should hold the seed about 1 inch above the water level.
- Position the seed so the wider base is down in the water. This orientation mimics how it would naturally sprout in the soil.
- Set it in a warm spot out of direct sunlight and change the water every few days to prevent bacteria build-up.
- Be patient – it can take 2-6 weeks for a sprout to emerge from the seed’s taproot end.
Planting the Sprouted Seed
Choosing a Container
Once the seed sprouts a firm root several inches long, it’s ready for planting. Choose a 10-12 inch diameter pot with good drainage holes to accommodate the avocado’s large root system as it grows. Glazed ceramic and plastic containers work well.
Potting Mix
Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix formulated for avocado trees or citrus trees. Regular potting soil often doesn’t provide enough drainage. A mix containing composted bark, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Planting the Seed
- Fill the pot about halfway with potting mix and create a small indentation in the center.
- Place the sprouted seed horizontally in the indentation with the sprout facing up.
- Normally covered with soil mix, leaving the top half of the seed is shown
- Water thoroughly after planting until excess moisture drains from the bottom.
Location and Care
Place the potted seed in a location that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Rotate the pot periodically to encourage straight upward growth. Water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist but not soaked.
Tree Care as it Grows
As the seedling develops into a young tree over the following 12-18 months, give it the proper care for optimal growth.
Sunlight
Avocado trees thrive in full sun once established. Gradually expose the plant to more direct sunlight over time until it receives 6-8 hours per day.
Temperature
Avocados are cold-sensitive, especially when young. Aim to keep temperatures between 60°F and 85°F year-round. If temperatures dip below 45°F, protect the plant or bring it indoors temporarily.
Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist but not overly wet by watering deeply whenever the top inch of soil begins to dry out. Drainage is very important to maintain the good health of your plant.
Fertilizing
Begin fertilizing every 1-2 months once the plant is 6-12 inches tall. Use a balanced fertilizer formulation or fertilize with compost/manure. If you over fertilize your plant that can be a cause of damage to your plant.
Pruning
Remove any dead or damaged branches as needed. As the plant matures, prune to encourage a single strong central trunk.
Transplanting
Your avocado tree will eventually need transplanting into a larger container or planted in the ground (if you live in a warm climate). Here are some guidelines:
| Plant Age | Container Size |
| 6-12 months | 12-16 inch pot |
| 1-2 years | 18-24 inch pot |
| 2+ years | 24-36 inch pot or plant in ground |
When transplanting, disturb the roots as little as possible and use the same well-draining potting mix.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will my avocado tree produce fruit?
Avocado trees grown from seed can take anywhere from 5-13 years to begin producing fruit, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Grafted nursery trees will usually fruit sooner.
How can I get my tree to grow straight?
Gently tie the young trunk to a stake to train it to grow upright. Prune away any competing upward shoots to promote a single central leader.
What pests and diseases affect avocado trees?
Common pests include avocado lace bugs, whiteflies, and mirids. Diseases to watch for are root rot, avocado black streak, and sun blotch. Proper care and preventative treatments can help reduce issues.
How large do avocado trees grow?
Avocado trees can grow incredibly tall in ideal conditions – up to 60-80 feet! In containers, they typically max out at 10-25 feet depending on the rootstock and container size.
Which country produces the best avocados?
Normally Mexico, Peru, Netherlands, Spain produce the best avocados in the world. And they export high quality avocados to the whole world. But out of these countries, other countries also produce avocados.
Conclusion
While it does take considerable time and effort, growing an avocado tree from a seed is a uniquely rewarding experience. By following these steps and giving your plant the proper care, you’ll be well on your way to harvesting delicious home grown avocados in the future. With some patience and luck, that little seed you rescued can transform into a beautiful, productive tree providing you with avocados for years to come.