Avocado trees (Persea Americana) have become a popular sight in many gardens in recent years. With the rise in popularity of their delicious fruit, as well as their aesthetically pleasing foliage and branching, it is easy to see why they have been embraced as an ornamental garden item as well as a cold hardy fruit tree.
For those with limited yard space, or those wishing to keep an avocado indoors, it is necessary to pot an avocado tree. But can an avocado tree thrive when kept in a pot?
The answer is yes: an avocado tree can grow in a pot. In fact, many larger avocado trees in the United States were imported as potted plants. Furthermore, they make an excellent addition to patio or courtyard gardens.
Purchasing a potted avocado tree from a nursery is the best option for those wishing to keep their tree in a pot for more than a few years. When buying a potted avocado tree, remember that a smaller, dwarf variety is best for keeping in a container, as larger varieties may have root systems that grow too big for a pot. Consider varieties such as ‘Fuerte,’ ‘Hass,’ ‘Pinkerton’ or ‘Reed’ for container growing.
When planting a container-grown avocado tree, be sure to use a pot that is at least 18 inches wide and has adequate drainage holes. It is also important to choose a container that is heavy enough to prevent being knocked over in strong winds or by animals or wayward children.
A quality planting medium should be used; however, it is not necessary to use a potting soil specifically designed for avocado trees. For container-grown trees, look for a soil that is specifically made for container gardens, or potting soils.
Avocado trees grown in containers will require more frequent watering than those grown in the ground and in garden beds. When the top of the soil becomes dry, it is time to water. However, remember not to water your tree too often; overwatering is almost as bad as underwatering an avocado tree.
Fertilizing
Avocado trees grown in pots will need regular fertilizing to ensure their growth and health. The best fertilizer for potted avocado trees is one designed for citrus, as most citrus fertilizers also provide the necessary vitamins and minerals that an avocado tree needs.
When fertilizing, use a half- to a quarter-strength dilution, as over-fertilizing can damage the tree’s roots. Fertilize the tree every other month during the growing season, which is generally April to October.
Avocado trees that are grown in containers are more vulnerable to environmental stresses, such as extreme temperatures or overwatering. It is therefore important to keep an eye on the weather and be sure to move the tree indoors if temperatures are expected to drop too low or if there is a heavy downpour or strong winds in the forecast.
Pruning
Pruning an avocado tree that is kept in a pot is as important as pruning a tree in the ground. Pruning will help to ensure that the tree does not become too top-heavy, which can cause the whole tree to topple in windy conditions, as well as encourage foliage growth and improve air circulation.
It is best to prune an avocado tree in late winter or early spring, as this is when the tree is resting and does not need to use up extra energy to heal pruning wounds. No more than a third of the tree should be pruned at a time.
To prune an avocado tree, start by removing broken or injured branches and then any branches that are rubbing against each other or crossing. Next, look for branches that are too close together. Remove any that are growing straight up and thin out any that are growing too close together.
When pruning, be sure to use clean pruning tools so as not to spread any diseases or pests to the tree. Additionally, the pruned branches should be disposed of in the proper manner, either by burning them or disposing of them in the proper waste facility.
Light Requirements
Avocado trees kept in pots will require plenty of light. If the tree is kept indoors, be sure to place it near a sunny window and rotate it every so often to avoid any growth that is only on one side. A north- or south-facing window is ideal, as it will not receive too much direct sunlight.
For outdoor potted avocado trees, find a spot with plenty of direct sunlight, although some light afternoon shade is also beneficial. During the summer, the tree may need to be moved to avoid any scalding in direct sunlight.
Conclusion
Keeping an avocado tree in a pot is a great way to bring the delicious fruit into a small garden and to enjoy the beauty of the bright green foliage. With the proper care, a potted avocado tree can grow and thrive for many years.
