Avocado trees grow best in warmer climates with temperatures ranging from 15 to 24 degrees Celsius. They are very versatile and can be planted almost anywhere, from gardens to containers. For those wanting to easily grow their own avocado tree, grafting can be an effective method. Grafting involves attaching a rootstock to a scion, or cutting, taken from another avocado tree. This allows the tree to utilize the rootstock’s strength in producing a much healthier and prolific fruit.
When grafting an avocado tree, there are a few essential items to have on hand. These include: a sharp grafting knife, a sharp pruning saw, a roll of grafting tape, and a sharp razor blade. Additionally, the scion, or cutting, you plan to use should be between 18 to 24 inches long and have at least 3 buds. It’s also essential to select a compatible rootstock, one that is in the same family and of the same size as the scion. Taking the age of both plants into consideration is also important. The rootstock should be younger than the scion.
Preparation
The first step is to prepare the rootstock. This includes pruning away any weak areas and any growths that aren’t essential to the root’s well-being. Be sure to only prune the rootstock, not the scion. Once this is done, you will need to make sure the rootstock is healthy and strong by fertilizing it with a high-quality soil. The rootstock should also be pruned until only the main stem is left.
Another important step is to disinfect the tools you will be using for grafting. This helps prevent any diseases that may occur from being transferred between the rootstock and scion. This can easily be done using a small amount of rubbing alcohol or bleach.
Grafting
Once you have prepared the rootstock and scion, you are ready to begin the actual grafting process. Start by selecting a branch that is the same size as the scion. Make a cut one to two inches below the branch and cut it flush against the stem. Take the scion and make a 45-degree angle cut near the base, making sure the cut is the same size and shape as the cut you made on the rootstock. Wrap the scion with grafting tape and place it in the cut created on the rootstock. Secure the scion with the grafting tape and, when finished, the two cuts should be flush against each other.
The next step is to trim away any extra growth or branches from the grafting area. Once again, take care to not touch or trim anything on the scion. At this point, the grafting process is complete and now it’s time to give the avocado tree some time to rest. During this time, the scion and rootstock will begin to combine and form a stronger structure. It’s important to give the tree time to heal so avoid pruning it during this period.
Maintenance
Avocado trees need a lot of water and sunlight, both of which are essential to their overall health and growth. To ensure the tree is getting enough water, check the soil daily and give it a deep watering when the soil is dry. Additionally, use mulch to help maintain the soil moisture. As the tree grows, continue to prune it to ensure it takes shape while also managing any insect and disease problems.
Finally, be sure to give your tree adequate amounts of sunlight. If it’s planted in full sun, be sure to rotate the pot so all sides of the tree receive sunlight. Otherwise, you can ensure your tree is getting adequate amounts of sunlight by placing it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day.
Harvesting
The harvest time for an avocado tree can vary from tree to tree. Depending on the type and size of the tree, it can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months for the avocados to be ready for harvesting. To determine when the avocados are ripe, check the colour of the skin. When the avocados are ready, the skin should be a dark, brownish-green colour. When harvesting, use a pair of pruning shears or scissors to snip the fruit from the branches.
Pests and Disease
Avocado trees are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. The most common ones are aphids, scale insects, mites, fungal diseases, and root rot. To prevent pests and disease, keep an eye out for any signs of infestation or disease. If necessary, use an appropriate pesticide or fungicide to deal with any pest or disease problems.
Regular pruning is also essential to keeping avocado trees healthy. This can help keep away any unneeded or diseased growth from infecting the tree. Dead or overgrown branches should be cut away to ensure the tree is able to receive the proper amount of sunlight and air circulation.
Fertilizing
Avocado trees should be fertilized every few months to ensure optimal fruit production and growth. During the spring and fall seasons, the trees should be fertilized with a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer. During the summer and winter months, use a mild liquid fertilizer.
It’s also important to keep the soil pH level around 6.0 or slightly above. To do this, adjust the soil composition regularly by adding natural compost or manure to the soil. This will help to maintain the necessary pH levels for optimal growth and fruiting.
Seedlings Vs Grafting
Finally, it’s important to understand the difference between starting an avocado tree from seed and grafting one. Growing an avocado tree from seed can be done, however, it will likely take many years before the tree produces any fruit. On the other hand, a grafted tree will begin to produce fruit much sooner as it will already have an established root system and scion.
Affordable and accessible, grafting an avocado tree is a great option for anyone looking to easily plant a tree that will produce a lot of healthy fruit. With patience and maintenance, you can enjoy harvesting fresh avocados in no time.
