Facts and Figures
Growing an avocado tree from a seed can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. The average tree can grow between 10 and 16 feet tall, making it an impressive houseplant. A mature tree can also produce hundreds of fruits each year. Growing an avocado tree in a pot requires a good understanding of its needs and the right environment.
Avocados, a type of berry, are incubated in temperatures of, 65 to 75° F (18° to 24° C). In addition, soil acidic levels should be kept in a pH range of 6-7 or slightly higher. To propagate and fruiting, adequate airflow is essential. As avocados are an evergreen tree, they need bright, filtered light in their pot.
It is important to keep in mind that a pot-grown tree won’t be as productive as one in the ground. The size of the pot and the amount of water given to the tree can limit its growth. Additionally, the roots of the tree can become bound and twisted, leading to stunted growth. One way to help avoid this from occurring is to perform root pruning every two to three years.
Choosing a Container
Avocado trees require a deep and spacious planter to accommodate their root system. A minimum size of 24” should be considered for a full-grown tree. Larger round or square shaped tubs should be used for trees in development or those measuring up to 3Feet. For larger trees (over 3Feet), a wooden or plastic box with large drainage holes should be used.
The material of the container should also be taken into account. A pot made of material such as clay is a good choice as it allows better drainage. Terracotta and earthenware are also good choices, though slightly less so. Plastic or metal containers can also be used, but care should be taken to ensure they are well moisture-regulated.
Growing Pot-grown Trees
To get a successful start, the germinated seed should be planted in a pot with a well-balanced soil mix. The size of the seed should also be taken into account when selecting a potting mix. A good mix includes 25% coco peat, 25% sand, 25% perlite and 25% soil mix.
Once planted, the seed should be given ample sunlight. A south-facing window is a good option, though protection from hot direct sun is necessary. The seed should be watered every two to three days and fertilized as often as possible. During the dormant season, the seed should receive less water and fertilizer.
Caring For Trees in a Pot
Pot-grown avocado trees require different care than the trees in the ground. For example, the pot has to be moved inside when temperatures drop below 60°F (16°C) and placed outdoors when temperatures are above 60°F (16°C). The soil should be inspected regularly to check for signs of fungus or mildew. The tree should be protected from pests as much as possible. By following these tips, trees in a pot can be healthy and fruitful.
Pruning
Once the tree is established, it will require some pruning. The pruning process should be done in the winter and is mostly done to keep the tree healthy and well-shaped. As with any pruning process, only branches that are dead, damaged, or crossing each other should be trimmed. The pruning should be done carefully, avoiding large cuts, and should be tailored to the individual tree.
Irrigation and Fertilizing
Proper irrigation is important for the tree’s health. Water the tree every two to three days in the summer months, and once a week in winter. When watering, it is important to use a watering can or hose to apply the water down to the roots of the tree. The tree should never be watered directly onto the leaves or stem.
Fertilizing is also important for the tree’s vigor. A 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer can be used up to four times a year. The fertilizer should be applied when the tree is in active growth. The amount of fertilizer used should be halved during the dormant season.
Harvesting
Given proper care, pot-grown avocado tree will produce a bountiful harvest. The fruits of the tree are typically ready for harvest 2 to 3 months after flowering. Fruits can be harvested when they are soft enough to be pierced with a fingernail. The fruits should be plucked gently, taking care to avoid damaging the tree.
When harvesting, have a bucket or container ready to collect the fruits. Depending on the age of the tree, a pot-grown avocado tree can produce anywhere from a few dozen to a few hundred avocados per season. Carefully harvested fruits can be frozen, canned, or utilized in various dishes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to grow an avocado tree from a seed in a pot. While the tree won’t be as productive as one grown in ground, it can still provide a generous harvest. To get a successful start, it is important to select a suitable container, potting mix, and to provide enough light, water, and fertilizer. Lastly, the tree should be pruned regularly and the fruits should be harvested carefully.
