Growing Avocados at Home
A complete guide to growing your own avocado tree, whether starting from seed or buying a nursery plant.
How to Grow from Seed
Start with a Seed
Remove the pit from a ripe avocado. Wash it clean and let it dry. Insert 3-4 toothpicks around the middle and suspend it over a glass of water with the broad end down.
Wait for Roots
Place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight. Change water weekly. In 2-6 weeks, the pit will crack and roots will emerge from the bottom, followed by a stem from the top.
Plant in Soil
When the stem is about 6 inches tall, cut it back to 3 inches. Once it regrows, plant in a 10-inch pot with well-draining soil, leaving the top half of the pit exposed.
Provide Proper Care
Water regularly but don't overwater. Avocados like humidity and lots of light. Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Pinch & Prune
When the plant reaches 12 inches, pinch out the top leaves to encourage bushier growth. Continue to prune as needed to maintain shape and encourage branching.
Be Patient
Trees grown from seed can take 5-13 years to produce fruit, and may not produce at all. For faster results, purchase a grafted tree from a nursery.
Essential Care Guide
Light
Avocados need plenty of bright, indirect light. At least 6 hours daily. South-facing windows work best indoors.
Water
Water deeply when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Avoid overwatering which causes root rot. Yellow leaves often indicate too much water.
Temperature
Avocados prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Protect from frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).