Avocados are basically the superstars of the produce aisle, packed with vitamins and those healthy fats we all love. But did you know you can actually grow your own impressive little avocado tree right at home? If you’ve got a pit and a little patience, here’s how to get started.
Sprouting Your Seed
Next time you make guacamole, save that pit! To grow your own tree , start by giving the pit a thorough scrub. You want to remove every bit of green flesh, otherwise, it might start to rot later on.
Grab a small pot (about 4 to 6 inches) and fill it with high-quality seed-starting mix. Press the clean pit into the soil with the pointy end facing up. You only want to bury it about halfway—the top half should stay exposed.
Give it a good drink of water. Pro tip: Stretch some plastic wrap over the top of the pot to keep the moisture in. Place it in a bright, warm spot and wait for the magic to happen. Just a heads-up: it can take up to eight weeks to see any roots or leaves, so don’t give up on it!
Time to Repot
Once your seedling has established a solid root system and has at least six leaves, it’s ready for a bigger home. You’ll want to move it into a pot that’s roughly 8 to 12 inches in diameter.
The Step-by-Step Guide
- Start by filling your new pot with about 2 inches of fresh soil. A potting mix designed for citrus or palm trees works wonders here.
- Carefully remove your seedling from its original small pot. Be super gentle—you don’t want to damage those delicate new roots.
- Set the plant in the center of the new pot and fill in the gaps around the root ball with more soil.
- Press the soil down firmly (but gently!) and give it a thorough watering.
- Place the pot on a saucer and find a sunny, warm spot for it to live.
Care and Maintenance
Avocados are tropical plants, so they crave warmth. During the summer, they love being outside as long as it’s sunny and hot. A sheltered spot against a south-facing wall or on a sunny balcony is perfect. Keep the watering consistent—they like to stay hydrated, but they hate “wet feet” (standing water). During the growing season from May to September, your tree will appreciate some extra nutrients. A good liquid fertilizer is your best bet.
In the wild, avocados grow into massive trees, so your indoor plant will naturally want to grow tall and lanky. If you prefer a fuller, bushier look, give your tree a little trim in the spring. Now, for the reality check: unless you have a massive, heated greenhouse or live in a tropical climate, your tree likely won’t produce fruit. However, if you have a bright sunroom that stays warm all winter, you might be rewarded with some beautiful blooms!
Quick Tip: Try to start your seeds in late winter. By the time spring rolls around, the plant will be ready for its bigger pot, and the rising temperatures will give it the boost it needs to thrive.
