Understand Basics Of Avocado Tree Repotting
Avocados are one of the most popular fruits, with an ever-growing demand and an ever-expanding global market. Avocado trees require proper care and maintenance to bear a bounty of delicious fruits. One of the key aspects of caring for an avocado tree is repotting it when the time is right. This process requires some knowledge and skill, as to maximize the time between repottings, and maintain a healthy and fruitful tree.
When To Repot Your Avocado Tree
Avocado trees can and should be repotted when they are root bound, which occurs when the roots of the tree begin to encircle the pot, or when the soil begins to break down and lose its moisture. Repotting an avocado tree should begin when the roots have taken up about two-thirds of the pot’s soil. However, this does not mean that every avocado tree should be repotted every two years.
The best time for repotting an avocado tree is when the tree is dormant, usually in the late winter or early spring, when cold temperatures are least likely to be damaging to the roots of the tree. In warmer climates, the tree may be weeks away from the actual repotting before the soil temperature is low enough. Avocado trees should be watered more frequently in the weeks leading up to the repotting, but they should not be over-watered or under-watered.
Specifications Of The New Pot
When choosing a new pot for your avocado tree, choose one that is larger than the tree’s previous pot. A good estimate is to choose a pot that is two to three times larger than the previous pot. The pot should be ceramic, ideally one made from terracotta clay. It should also have a drainage hole in the bottom, as avocado trees prefer more moisture in the soil than too little.
Repotting The Avocado Tree
Before repotting the avocado tree, a protective layer of mud or gravel should be placed in the bottom of the pot to improve the drainage. This should be followed by a layer of fresh soil. Once the soil is in the pot, carefully turn the tree on its side and remove it from its previous pot.
Gently loosen the tree’s roots and lightly remove any broken, dead, or overgrown roots. If possible, the roots of the tree should be turned outward prior to planting in the new pot. Plant the tree in the new pot with the same depth at which it was planted in its previous pot.
Providing Proper Care After Repotting
Once the tree has been repotted, it should be watered immediately. The amount of water should be reduced from its regular amount for the first week or so to give the tree time to establish its roots in the new soil. After the waiting period, water the tree according to its regular routine.
Gently place a layer of mulch or gravel around the tree’s roots. This will help to keep the moisture and nutrients in the soil and prevent weeds from growing around the tree. The tree should be misted daily in order to help prevent the leaves from drying out and to keep the soil moist.
Fertilizer For Avocado Trees
Avocado trees require regular feedings of organic fertilizer every month or two in order to remain healthy. The best fertilizer is an organic mix that is high in nitrogen, such as an organic fish emulsion or an organic liquid fertilizer. The recommended rate of application is one cup of fertilizer for every four to six inches of tree height.
Pest & Disease Prevention
It is important to watch for signs of pests or diseases. If pests are present, the tree should be treated with an insecticidal soap or another organic pest control agent. Diseases can be prevented by pruning dead or diseased branches and keeping the tree clean of debris. If a disease does occur, it is important to act quickly and treat the infected branches promptly.
Pruning Of Avocado Trees
Avocado trees should be pruned regularly, which helps to promote healthy growth and ensures that the tree will stay within its intended size. The best time to prune is in the spring, prior to the growing season. The tree should be pruned lightly, removing any dead or damaged branches, as well as lightly shaping the tree.
Winter Care For Avocado Trees
In cold climates, an avocado tree should be covered with a layer of mulch or gravel for added protection against temperatures that may dip below freezing. The tree should also be pruned lightly, to ensure that the branches are not weighed down by snow or ice. It is also important to ensure that the tree is adequately watered during cold periods, as the soil can dry out quickly in winter.
Humidity Requirement
Avocado trees thrive in high humidity. If the temperature of the air is too low or too high, the tree may suffer. It is important to ensure that the tree is getting enough moisture, either through misting or through a humidifier. The humidity level should be kept between 40-60%, in order to prevent stress and promote healthy growth.
General Maintenance
The most important thing when caring for an avocado tree is to provide adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. The tree should be fertilized every few months, and organisms such as earthworms can be added to the soil to help enrich it. It is also important to keep the tree free from pests and diseases, and to keep it clean of dead leaves and debris.
