Ever wanted your own avocado tree?
You can grow one right in a pot!
Learn how to plant and care for your avocado tree so it thrives.
Excited to start?
Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Assemble Your Materials

- Avocado: Find a mature avocado to extract and reserve its seed.
- Large Pot: Ensure it has sufficient drainage.
- Potting Mix: Opt for a mix that drains well, ideal for indoor plants.
- Toothpicks: Several for seed suspension.
Step 2: Remove the Seed
- Split the avocado down the middle lengthwise.
- Extract the seed carefully.
- Wash the seed to get rid of clinging fruit flesh.
- Preserve the brown coat around the seed; it’s essential for protection.
Step 3: Get the Seed Ready for Germination
- Identify Ends: Distinguish the top (pointed end) from the bottom (flat end) of the seed.
- Insert Toothpicks: Place 3-4 toothpicks around the seed’s center, spaced evenly.
- Water Suspension: Use the toothpicks to suspend the seed in water, partially submerged, to initiate germination.
Step 4: Initiate Germination Process
- Prepare Container: Obtain a vessel and fill it to the midpoint with water.
- Position Seed: Place the seed so its lower half is submerged, upper half above water.
- Ensure Warmth: Locate a warm area, shielded from direct sunlight.
Step 5: Keep an Eye on Progress
- Daily Tasks:
- Verify water levels.
- Ensure lower part of seed remains submerged.
- Growth Indicators (2-6 weeks):
- Seed division.
- Root appearance beneath.
- Sprout development on top.
Step 6: Repotting the Germinated Seed
- Root Length: Ensure the taproot extends ~6 inches.
- Pot Preparation: Utilize well-aerated soil within the pot, leaving space atop.
- Seed Placement: Insert the seed with the taproot downward and sprout upwards.
Step 7: Nurture Your Avocado Plant
- Position your avocado tree pot near a well-lit window for optimal sunlight exposure, aiming for 6-8 hours each day.
- Water your tree to maintain moisture in the soil, but allow it to dry out a bit before the next watering to avert root rot.
Step 8: Ensure Proper Care
- Pruning: Trim regularly for fuller growth; remove unhealthy limbs.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer quarterly, adhering to instructions.
- Pot Rotation: Turn the plant’s pot periodically for uniform development.
Step 9: Exercise Patience
- Growth Time: Avocado trees take time to produce fruit.
- Observation: Enjoy the growth journey.
- Pot Sizing: Upgrade pot size as roots expand.
I made quacamole for the first time & I have 3 pits .. can’t wait to try growing them 👍 thanks