If you’ve ever tried sprouting an avocado seed at home, you know how difficult it is to get a plant to grow. Although it’s a slightly longer process, it’s possible to grow avocados at home like other plants.
The avocado tree grows best in warmer regions, as it only needs warmth to thrive. However, it can also be grown in colder areas if you protect it from cold and frost.
Below we suggest the basic care to grow an avocado tree in a pot and keep it healthy and strong.
1. Good germination
Clean the avocado seed thoroughly and pierce it with four toothpicks, so that you can place it in water with the point 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 temperatures often drop below 10°C, it is recommended to plant the avocado tree in a pot that can be kept indoors. Avocados are very sensitive to cold.
If you live in a temperate region with mild winters, you can put the avocado in a slightly larger pot.
3. Ideal soil
Avocados require acidic soil with a pH of 5 to 7. The ideal mix is made up of equal parts peat moss, coconut fiber, and worm castings. Finally, add a handful of perlite to allow the soil to aerate well.
The soil must also be able to drain water well. Avocados are sensitive to waterlogging.
4. Basic care
- Freddo. Move the plant indoors and keep it near a window to ensure the right amount of light. If you decide to keep it outdoors, cover it with thermal foil.
- Heat. You can use burlap to provide shade and prevent the sun from burning the delicate leaves.
- Watering. The pot must have good drainage. If there is no water, the leaves will show brown spots on the tips.
5. Fertilization
Add fertilizer during the warmest times of the year, when the plant is developing and growing.
You can use the same earthworm castings you used for the soil. Simply place them on the surface of the pot.
6. First size
After about a year, the avocado will have reached a height of about 60 centimeters. It is recommended to trim the ends to facilitate branching and ensure that it does not grow in only one direction.
