If you've ever tried to germinate an avocado seed at home, you know how difficult it can be to obtain a plant. Although it is a slightly longer process, growing avocados at home like other plants is possible.
The avocado tree grows best in warmer areas as it needs heat to grow properly. However, it can also be grown in cold areas if protected from cold and frost.
Below, we suggest the basic care you need to take to grow an avocado plant in a pot and ensure that it grows healthy and strong.
1-Proper germination Clean the avocado pit well and pierce it with 4 toothpicks, so that you can place it in the water with the tip facing up. Change the water once a week to prevent it from rotting.
The seed will take about three weeks to germinate. The ideal time to grow avocados is spring. Once the first leaves appear, it will be ready to be placed in a vase.
2-Pot size In areas where the temperature frequently drops below 10°C, it is recommended to plant the avocado in a pot that can be kept indoors. Avocados are very susceptible to cold.
If you live in an area with a temperate climate, with mild winters, you can place the avocado in a slightly larger pot.
3-Ideal soil Avocado needs acidic soil, with a pH between 5 and 7. The ideal mixture is composed of peat, coconut fiber and earthworm humus in equal parts. Finally, add a handful of perlite to allow the soil to be properly aerated.
The soil must also be able to drain water well. Avocados are susceptible to water accumulation.
4-Basic care Cold. Move the plant indoors and place it near a window to ensure the right amount of light. If you decide to keep it outside, cover it with a thermal cloth. Heat. You can use a screen to provide shade and prevent the sun from burning the delicate leaves. Watering. The pot must have good drainage. If there is a lack of water, the leaves will have brown spots at the tips.
5-Fertilization Add fertilizer during the hottest periods of the year, that is, when the plant is growing and forming shoots.
You can use the same earthworm humus that you used in the soil composition. Just place it on the surface of the vase.
6-First pruning After about a year, the avocado will have reached a height of about 60 centimeters. It is recommended to cut the ends to facilitate branching and prevent it from growing in one direction.
Great writeup. I had an avo seed germinate in my bathtub worm farm once. I did literally nothing with it and just discovered it one day with a huge 2 foot sprout on it 🥑🌱😆 The conditions must have been perfect for it. Life finds a way.
How cool, I confess I would like to see a photo