Avocados, which are known botanically as Persea americana, are a type of fruit that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing avocados as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Avocados
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the avocado seeds in late winter or early spring, using grafted trees. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when avocados are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Avocados the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing avocados in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your avocados grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained and fertile. Soil PH levels should be around 6.0 to 6.5.
8-10 feet apart in rows 8-10 feet apart. 20-30 feet apart in rows 20-30 feet apart, depending on the rootstock. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about 36-48″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your avocado seedlings 20-30 feet apart when trees are 1-2 years old, depending on the rootstock.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Avocados
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your avocados. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your avocados should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Avocados
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your avocados do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your avocados begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Avocados to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your avocados grow.
It takes approximately trees do not need to germinate to germinate, and a total of 4-6 years for fruit production from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Avocados
The best time to harvest your avocados is when avocados are fully developed, firm, and separate easily from the tree.
Avocados can grow up to about varies by variety, typically 4-8″ length fruit.
What Can Avocados Be Used For?
Food Use: great for snacking, salads, and cooking.
Flavor Profile: varies by variety, from creamy to nutty and buttery to firm.
Can Avocados Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, you can plant dwarf varieties in 24-36″ containers. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your avocados around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Avocados Safe for Bees?
Yes, avocados are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing avocados is bee-friendly.
