| we planted a couple avocado seeds and they are growing. How do we care for them? |
| Here's how I start avocado seeds: Take three toothpicks and insert them opposite of each other about halfway between the top (pointy end) and the bottom (flat end) of each pit. These will be used to suspend the pit in a glass of water. Place the skewered avocado pit in a glassful of water so the top is above the water and the bottom half is in the water. The pit will crack and grow roots and then send a shoot up out of the top. When the shoot develops two leaves, plant the pit in a pot with regular potting soil. When the stem reaches 12-18" tall, pinch out the very tip of the stem and it will branch out. It will continue to grow and provide nice greenery. You can grow the tree indoors for a few years, but it will eventually outgrow its indoor home and should be planted outdoors. Avocado trees love full sun, but will grow in part shade. Trees grown from supermarket avocados will not be very cold tolerant and might need winter protection if your winter weather dips below freezing. A mild frost shouldn't hurt it though, especially after it's been in the ground for a few years. |
