Avocados have become a popular ingredient in many kitchens, thanks to their nutrient-packed properties. But have you ever considered growing them yourself? Imagine having fresh avocados on hand, perfect for creamy guacamole or colourful salads, all from your own garden. With the right care and attention, you can nurture a healthy avocado tree in your own space. Apart from being rewarding, this gardening activity will also enhance your environment and connect you with nature. So, are you ready to get started? Let’s dive into the journey of growing the perfect avocado plant, from seed to fruit-bearing beauty.
Grow avocado with these easy steps
Choose the right one
Start by picking a healthy avocado from the market, ensuring it’s free from mould and pests. The quality of the seed depends on the quality of the fruit.
Remove the seed
Carefully cut the avocado in half, avoiding the seed. Take out the seed and rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any pulp.
Soak the seed
Wrap the avocado seed in a damp cloth and place it in a dark spot for a few weeks. Once it begins to sprout roots and shoots, identify the seed’s top (pointed) and bottom (rounded), as roots grow from the bottom.
Wait for the roots
Place the seed over a glass container with its lower half submerged in water. Set the glass in a warm, sunny spot and ensure it’s consistently filled with fresh water for optimal growth.
Water carefully
Change the water every few days to prevent bacteria and mould, ensuring the seed’s bottom stays immersed. In a few days, the shoots will start developing into leaves.
Transfer to soil
When the roots reach a few inches and the stem has leaves, transfer the seedling to a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Ensure only the roots are buried in the soil.
Ensure good care
Keep the soil consistently moist, allowing it to dry slightly between waterings. Place the plant in a sunny spot in your garden or balcony for optimal growth.
Harvest time
If growing from a sapling, follow these steps for about a year. If you started from a seed, follow for at least two years. Trees grown from seeds may take longer to bear fruit and may not match the quality of the original fruit. To speed up, consider buying a grafted sapling from a nursery. When your tree begins to produce fruit, gently twist and pinch to help them ripen. The perfect avocado will be ready within days.
Growing an avocado plant at home is a rewarding journey. Even if it takes time to bear fruit, the bright greenery it brings adds beauty to any indoor or outdoor space, offering a fulfilling gardening experience and a deeper connection to nature.
