Germinating The Seed
Growing an avocado tree requires a bit of patience and some very particular steps. To start, it is important to select the right seed. An avocado seed may look daunting, but it can be cracked open and the seed inside is then ready to be germinated. To do this, it should be placed in a cup of water, making sure only the bottom third is immersed. Experts suggest changing the water every three to four days to avoid mildew or bacteria buildup.
The seed should be left to stand in the water. After a few days, a root should start to emerge from the bottom, and once it is two to three inches long, the seed should be planted in potting soil. The seed should be placed horizontally in the soil, about one to two inches deep and at a distance of four to six inches from the rim of the pot. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet, throughout the germinating period.
Caring for the Seedling
Over the course of the next few weeks, the seedling should start to sprout and grow. It will need plenty of sunlight and should be kept warm, but not in direct sun, as this can cause too much heat and burn the leaves. Plant the seedling in a large pot with plenty of drainage, as avocado roots need room to grow. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the seedling regularly, allowing the top of the soil to dry out before the next watering. An avocado tree can also benefit from an occasional misting of lukewarm water.
Feed the tree with a balanced fertilizer after it has grown to at least a foot tall and has a good root system. The fertilizer should contain an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. An avocado tree needs a lot of calcium too, so adding a calcium supplement to the soil will help the tree survive.
Encouraging Growth
Experts recommend pruning the avocado tree frequently to give the stems a bushier shape. This will encourage lots of foliage and also stimulate fruit production. Have patience during the wait for the tree to actually produce avocados; it typically takes at least five years for an avocado tree to yield its first harvest.
Protect the tree from any strong winds that may shake it and cause it to lose its fruits when they are ready to harvest. When the summer months hit, cover the tree with light sheets to prevent the flowers from opening and protect the fruits from sunburn.
Harvesting Avocados
An avocado tree typically yields between 50 and 200 avocados each year, depending on the size and age of the tree. Harvesting avocados can be tricky since they are still ripening after they are picked. With this in mind, it’s best to pick some avocados when they are still slightly firm. These should be eaten first, but softer avocados that are still slightly green should be stored in a paper or jute bag in a cool, dry place to ripen.
In general, an avocado tree is an easy and rewarding fruit tree to grow. It requires minimal care, and the fruits can be picked year after year. The tree will also act as a living conversation piece and add lovely greenery to any space.
Propagation
The avocado tree may also be propagated through grafting. This is done by cutting the top off an existing tree and planting it to a seedling. The first tree will then slowly feed the second tree, giving it the exact same characteristics. This way, the same type of avocado can be enjoyed for a much longer period of time.
The process of grafting involves a lot of skill and precision. It involves cutting off three to four inches of the tree’s tips and making sure its cambiums are placed together perfectly. It is advisable to practice on some less expensive fruits first and to avoid any injuries caused by too much pressure.
Pruning Strategies
To ensure a healthy and productive tree, regular pruning is essential. Pruning involves removing old, dead leaves, branches and shoots to allow the tree to concentrate its energies in growing healthy new stems, leaves, and flowers. Pruning an avocado tree should be done at least once a year and it is important to use clean and sterilized pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases to the tree.
When pruning the avocado tree, try not to remove more than one-third of the tree in a single go. Begin by pruning the dead, damaged, and diseased branches and look for ones that grow in towards the middle of the tree, or limbs that are crooking downwards. Make sure to cut off as close to the joint as you can and also, if necessary, prune any shoots lower down to allow for better air circulation and less crowding.
Pest Control
Avocado trees are susceptible to the attacks of various pests, such as caterpillars, mites, and scale insects. To prevent and control the damage done by pests, experts recommend regular checks of the tree and its leaves and branches. If any infestations are found, they should be dealt with immediately. Insecticides, such as neem oil, should be sprayed onto the leaves in order to repel the pests as well as to prevent further damage.
In the case of large infestations, more serious measures may be necessary. Spraying with a mixture of water and dish soap is useful for controlling pests, as this suffocates them. If the infestation persists, organic pesticides are available in nurseries that can help control the pest population.
Disease Prevention
While pests can cause a lot of damage to an avocado tree, diseases can be much harder to detect and cure. Avocado trees can suffer from a variety of diseases, from bacterial spot to root rot. To prevent any of these from taking hold, it is best to take preventative measures, such as using a fungicide or neem oil on the leaves and bark to keep them in tiptop condition. Additionally, any infected leaves should be removed as soon as possible.
Experts also suggest avoiding overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Irrigate when the soil feels dry to the touch and always make sure the tree is planted in well-draining soil. Additionally, keeping the environment around the tree free of weeds can reduce the likelihood of disease, as these plants can harbor insects that spread bacteria.
Winter Care
Avocado trees can be hardy enough to withstand cold temperatures in some areas. However, if the temperatures are expected to drop below 25 degrees Fahrenheit, it is wise to take some preventative steps to make sure the tree will survive. Applying a thick layer of mulch around the tree is a good way to insulate the soil, and a light blanket can be spread over the branches for extra protection.
When colder temperatures arrive, it is important to reduce watering. If the soil is too wet, it could freeze and damage the roots, whereas too dry soil can cause the tree to drop its leaves. If a heavy frost is predicted, it is advisable to cover the tree in plastic. This will protect the leaves and branches from the damage and help keep the temperatures around the tree more consistent.
