Gathering The Essentials
Growing an avocado tree is a challenging yet rewarding experience. But, the first step in growing your avocado tree is gathering the materials. Depending on your method, you will need to collect some basic materials. Start by collecting a healthy avocado. The fruit should feel heavy, smooth, and unblemished. Next, you’ll need a clear cup or glass that’s wide enough to support the avocado. Furthermore, you’ll need to collect toothpicks and two rubber bands. Finally, for the more adventurous among us, you may want to get some soil and potting containers for planting. Lastly, it’s always helpful to have access to plenty of water and sunshine.
Germinating The Avocado Pit
Once you’ve collected the necessary supplies, it’s time to germinate the avocado pit. To start, cut the avocado carefully in two and remove the pit. Clean off the pit and be gentle, as you don’t want to damage it. Next, use the toothpicks to hold the pit on the glass cup. Make sure to poke three of the four toothpicks in the sides of the avocado to secure it in place. Rub the last toothpick around the top of the avocado before sticking it in the cup. Afterwards, use the rubber bands to secure the toothpicks to the cup. Finally, submerge the avocado in warm water. It’s important to make sure that only half of the avocado pit is in the water. Change the water every two days for about two weeks for best results.
Germination to Planting
Once germination is complete, it’s time to move onto planting. Start by cleaning off the avocado pit and removing the toothpicks and rubber bands. Then, use a knife to cut away the topside of the pit. Make sure not to cut too deep or you might damage the plant. Next, fill the container or pot with soil, making sure the soil is not too tight or too loose. Afterwards, place the avocado pit into the soil and press firmly around it. The soil should cover the pit almost fully when finished. Keep in mind that the top half of the avocado pit should be exposed. Finally, set it in a position that receives about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering & Maintenance
Once your avocado tree has been planted, it’s important to water it regularly and keep up its maintenance. Depending on the temperature and the amount of light, water your tree about once a week in the beginning. As the tree grows, you will need to begin water it more often. Furthermore, it’s important to make sure that the soil is not too wet or too dry. If the soil gets too dry, the leaves are going to start drooping. On the other hand, if it gets too wet then the leaves are going to wilt or fall off. Lastly, you will need to prune or trim the tree every now and then to keep it healthy.
cultivating Nutrients & Fertilizers
As the tree continues to grow, it’s important to start giving it the right nutrition and building blocks it needs to thrive. For best results, use organic fertilizers. Manure teas are especially beneficial for the avocado tree, as they provide the tree with nitrogen, which helps the tree build strength and grow larger. Furthermore, bone meal is an excellent source of calcium, helping the tree build a strong root system and protect itself from disease. Lastly, start your avocado tree off with good soil. Good soil will help your avocado tree thrive by providing essential minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients to the tree.
Identifying & Dealing With Pests & Diseases
Even with the best care and most ideal conditions, it’s possible for your avocado tree to encounter pests and diseases. It’s important to be able to identify these issues early and take appropriate action. Common pests include spider mites, mealy bugs, scale insects, and aphids. Common diseases include root rot, powdery mildew, fungal leaf spots, and bacterial canker. To get rid of pests or treat diseases, use natural pest repellents and fungicide sprays. If the problem persists, you can try pruning the tree or transplanting it into new soil.
Harvesting & Enjoying the Fruits
Once your avocado tree starts producing fruit, it’s time to start harvesting and enjoying the fruits of your hard work. It’s a rewarding experience to watch as the small green fruits start to ripen. Depending on the variety, avocados can take anywhere from 4-10 months to mature. A mature avocado will look round in shape, with a slightly bumpy outer skin. To pick the fruit from the tree, lift the avocado gently and twist to remove it. Be careful not to damage the tree or the avocado. Finally, sit back and enjoy the delicious fruits your tree has produced.
Design & Care Techniques
Start by choosing the ideal spot for your avocado tree. Take the climate into consideration and look for an area with rich soil and plenty of sunshine. Make sure the area is well-drained and won’t get too hot or cold. You can also opt for mulching to keep the soil moist and to reduce weeds. When it comes to fertilizing, make sure to not overdo it. Lastly, frequent pruning and proper training can help control the size and shape of your tree.
Container Gardening
Another option is to grow your avocado tree indoors with container gardening. Start by choosing a pot that is large enough to house the tree without any problems. Use a pot that has plenty of drainage holes and a good drainage system. Mix the soil with organic compost and fill it in the pot. Plant the tree in the center and make sure it is not too deep. Next, water your tree lightly and use an indoor fertilizer once a month. Lastly, place the container in a spot that gets at least 8 hours of direct sunlight and you are good to go.
Rootstock Selection
Before you plant, it’s also important to take rootstock into consideration. With rootstock selection, you can determine the quality and yield of your tree. There are multiple rootstocks available, such as the Mexican rootstocks and the Donovan rootstocks. The Mexican rootstocks are smaller, easier to maintain, and more heat tolerant and a good option for those who don’t have much space for an avocado tree. On the other hand, the Donovan rootstocks are larger, and stronger and a good option for those looking for a more productive tree.
Preparing & Curing
Once you start harvesting, it’s important to also know how to handle, prepare, and cure the avocados properly. Start by picking them when they are soft and yet unripe. To prepare, cut the avocado in half and scoop out the flesh. To cure, place them in a paper bag with a few lemon slices and store in a cool, dry, and dark place. Leave them in the bag for at least three days to allow them to cure and turn dark in color. Lastly, enjoy your freshly cured avocados.
