Where to Get Quality Seeds
Avocado trees are notoriously hard to cultivate and can take up to 15 years to bear fruit. For green thumbs and gardeners looking to grow their own avocado tree it is essential to source quality seed stock. Unripe, unblemished avocados are best used as they’ll have higher germination rates and won’t run the risk of being infected with diseases. It can be difficult to find such good quality avocados in grocery stores as these are especially picked for their size. It might be worth trying to source an avocado with thick, green, unblemished skin from a farmers’ market or local grower.
Choosing the Best Potting Medium
When planting an avocado tree from seed, the importance of potting medium should not be overlooked. A well-draining, good quality compost or potting mix composed of 50% sand, 25% peat and 25% coir is best. The potting soil should also have slow-release fertilizer and perlite to aid drainage and allow for aeration. Pre-moistening the potting soil can also provide extra nutrients for the seed as it germinates and grows.
Planting The Seed
Once all the materials are gathered, then it’s time to plant the avocado seed. Carefully plant the seed deep enough so that the growing stem, when it sprouts, will be strong and less likely to break. The seed should also be kept slightly moist so as to avoid the risk of any fungal diseases. To do this, the soil should be left damp, but not soaked or waterlogged.
Caring for the Sapling
Once the seed has successfully sprouted, the young sapling should be nourished with weekly feedings of liquid, balanced fertilizer. The sapling should also receive regular sunlight – if possible three to four hours of direct sunlight each day. In the case of colder winter months, the sapling will also require some protection from temperatures. A grow-light or an artificial pot heater can be used to regulate the temperature and keep the young sapling warm and healthy.
Protecting the Tree from Diseases
Apart from providing adequate sunlight and nourishment, it is also important to protect the young tree from various fungal diseases. Fungal diseases, such as black spot and root rot, can be easily prevented by spraying the sapling with a fungicide. Additionally, it is important to note that avocado trees can be susceptible to stem and root borers as well and so it is essential to monitor for these pests as the tree matures and take every possible measure to prevent infestation.
Pruning and Training the Tree
Once the avocado tree has reached about four feet in height, pruning should be carried out to give it structure and form. The tree should be pruned back to encourage new fruit production and should be trained to have a single trunk to prevent breakage as it matures. Additionally, it is advisable to use stakes or trellises to support the tree as it grows and aid in its training and pruning.
Repotting the Tree
As the tree matures, it may require repotting in a larger pot to give its roots the necessary space to grow and spread. Repotting the tree should be carried out carefully and any damaged or injured roots should be trimmed away. Additionally, while repotting, it is important to ensure that no air pockets are left which can restrict water absorption and nutrition.
Maintaining the Avocado Tree
Once the avocado tree is mature enough to bear fruit, it should be periodically monitored for signs of disease or pests. Any damaged or diseased leaves should be trimmed away and any pests should be treated as soon as possible to prevent infestation and to keep the tree healthy and productive. Additionally, the soil should be left damp, but not saturated and the tree should also receive adequate nutrition through the application of slow-release fertilizer.
Harvesting the Avocado Fruit
Avocado trees can usually take up to 15 years before bearing fruit. Once fruit has begun to form, the tree should be continuously monitored for ripeness. The color and aroma of the avocados can provide cues for ripeness as thefruit will mature from green to purple and light-green to black. If a majority of the avocados have reached this stage of maturity, it’s time for harvesting.
Guidelines for Transplanting the Seedling
In order to produce avocado fruits, the seedling must be transplanted outdoors. This can prove difficult for the novice gardener, however there are several easy guidelines to follow. Firstly, it is important to find a location that has rich, permeable soil and receives adequate sunlight. Once the location has been determined, it should be prepared with a thick layer of mulch to keep weeds at bay and to provide insulation.
Preparing the Seedling for Transplantation
In order to ensure a successful transplant operation the seedling must be properly prepared. This includes gently stirring the surrounding soil, which will provide aeration and help stimulate root growth. The seedling should be carefully lifted out of the pot and its roots separated gently with a fork or a shovel. The seedling should then be transplanted quickly and left undisturbed for a few days.
Providing Optimal Care After Transplantation
After transplanting the seedling, providing optimal care and nourishment is key to its continued growth. It is important to maintain moisture levels in the soil prior to transplantation and during the few weeks immediately afterwards. This can be achieved through regular watering and a layer of mulch over the surface of the soil. Fertilizer can also be used to nourish the soil during the growth period, however care should be taken to avoid over-fertilizing as this can damage the roots.
Dealing with Possible Pests and Diseases
It is important to be mindful of pests and diseases when growing an avocado tree. Many pests, such as scale and mealybug, can be prevented through the use oforganic insecticides or chemical preventatives. Additionally, be vigilant for signs of diseases such as root and stem rot and take preventive measures such as pruning and soil sterilization.
