Introduction
Avocado trees are one of the most popular and healthiest fruits earning its fame as a “super food”. Growing an avocado tree from seed is surprisingly easy and can be fun and rewarding. In this article, we explore the steps in-depth on how to start an avocado tree from seed and the issues you should consider before beginning the project.
Background and Expert Perspectives
Growing an avocado tree is not a project for everyone. Avocado trees can become quite large and will require minimal care over the years. A mature tree can be 35–40 feet tall and similarly wide and care should be taken to make sure the tree will have enough space. However, for those with the room, care and dedication, the reward of having an avocado tree from seed can be quite satisfying.
When it comes to the actual planting process, an avocado tree is going to require a few supplies. According to Dr. Cameron Bender at the University of California, Davis, avocado tree propagators should have regular potting soil, water, and access to a heat source. Furthermore, it is important to obtain a variety of avocado seeds that are known to produce quality fruit.
Germination
Let’s start with the process of germination. The seed should be soaked in room temperature water for 24 hours before you start the germination process. As the seed begins to soften, you can remove it from the water and plant it just below the surface of the potting soil. The seed should be placed in an area which receives indirect light and warmth.
It can take anywhere between 6-12 weeks for the stem and root of the avocado tree to grow out of the seed. This is a long process, and patience is important here. To ensure the seedling stays healthy, be sure to water the pot when the soil feels dry to touch.
Maintaining the Plant
Once the roots start to grow out of the seed, it can be pruned to only two leaves and the seed can be removed from the soil. This is a process that can take up to six months and the pot should be kept in indirect sunlight and away from strong winds throughout this time.
When the tree is 6-12 inches in height, it can be re-potted into a much larger pot, with regular potting soil and 16-24 inches in circumference. Before planting the tree, avocado growers will need to look into fertilizers to ensure the plant receives all the necessary nutrients throughout the growth process. Additionally, the soil should remain moist and not overly wet throughout this process.
Transplanting & Harvesting the Avocado
When the tree is 2-3 feet in height, the grower is free to plant the tree into a larger area outdoors. Upon transplanting, it is important to ensure that the tree is receiving full direct sunlight and has enough room to spread out and to a proper depth in the soil so that roots and the soil mass are established. Finally, it is recommended that the tree is pruned twice a year to ensure it remains healthy and produces decent quality fruit.
For most backyard growers, it takes anywhere between 4-6 years for their avocado tree to start producing fruit, depending on the health of the tree. When the fruit is harvested, growers should ensure that the fruit is not over-ripe, but not too hard either.
Ultimately, it is important to remember that growing an avocado tree is not a quick process. But with some patience and time, the grower can be rewarded with tasty avocados to enjoy in their backyard.
Selecting The Right Variety
When selecting an avocado variety for growing, there are many factors to consider. According to Dr. Bender, home growers should select varieties that will thrive in their regions. If the tree is planted in a cold or dry climate then, select varieties that are suited for this environment.
Other factors to consider are whether the fruit will be harvested for eating, commercial profit, or just to have a new tree in their backyard. Generally, avocados that are grown for eating the fruit come in bigger sizes, while commercial avocados are selected based on their production rate and size. Furthermore, the bloom time and ripening date of the fruit should be considered in colder regions and summers, respectively.
Caring For The Avocado Tree
Caring for an avocado tree is relatively straightforward and requires some simple steps. A tree should be watered regularly, yet not too frequently as the soil should be kept moist and not wet. A regular fertilizing schedule should be established depending on the variety. Furthermore, mulching the tree will help to conserve and maintain the soil moisture and to reduce weeds.
Lastly, be vigilant for pests and diseases. Pests such as mites, thrips, and aphids can cause serious damage to the tree and could even kill it. If a pest is spotted, appropriate action should be taken. Additionally, diseases that are associated with avocado trees should also be monitored and treated if necessary. This can include root rot, stem canker, and black spot.
Transplanting & Planting Preparation
When it comes to transplanting an avocado tree, it is important to properly prepare the soil and the spot you are going to plant the tree. Firstly, the soil should be tested to make sure it contains enough nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and sufficient pH levels. Secondly, the soil should be amended with organic matter that will provide nutrients throughout the growing season. Lastly, an organic with pest repellent should be mixed into the topsoil to help control pests.
Transplanting a tree is a delicate process that should take place in the spring or early summer. To minimize the shock of transplanting, the tree should be handled carefully. Specifically, the roots should remain moist and the entire root mass should remain intact. After planting, the tree should be watered deeply to ensure the roots and soil mass are established.
Harvesting The Fruits
Harvesting avocados is also a delicate process. The tree should be monitored closely to see when the fruits start to turn from green to yellow-green. Once the fruits have reached this color they can be harvested with care. When harvesting the fruit, be sure to leave the stem attached and to store the fruit in a cool dark place.
Harvesting the fruit is a rewarding step to take, but there is still one more step to take before tasting the fruits of labor. It is best to wait one to two weeks before tasting the fruits of your labours. Tasting the fruits of our labour too early can result in a bitter taste, as the flavours developed over time
