How to Propagate an Avocado from a Seed

Avocado is a native fruit of southern Mexico and grows on evergreen trees that can reach up to 80 feet tall. The trees shed leaves in spring and have a rapid growth rate with a broad mature form. Avocados are highly nutritious, with double the energy value of bananas. The fruit contains vitamins, potassium and monounsaturated fats, but is low in carbohydrates. You can start you own avocado tree with a fresh avocado pit or seed.

Fresh avocado seed
Cup or glass
Four toothpicks
Small pot
Potting soil

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a glass three-quarters of the way with water. Wash a freshly removed avocado seed in cold water. Insert four toothpicks at equal intervals around the middle of the seed.
- 2
  Suspend the seed, broad end down, in the glass with the toothpicks resting on the rim. The bottom fourth of the seed should be in the water. Add more water if required.
- 3
  Place the glass in a warm area with bright light, such as a windowsill. Change the water every few days as it is depleted of oxygen. It takes four to five weeks for the roots to start appearing from the seed. The stem follows later.
- 4
  Fill a 6- to 8-inch pot with well-draining potting soil. Create a hole in the center as deep as the size of seed.
- 5
  Remove toothpicks and place the seed in the center of the hole. Plant deep enough for the top to be level with the soil surface. Water well and place in a bright area. Provide water regularly to keep the soil moist but not wet.
- 6
  Transplant to an outdoor location after three to four months. Choose a site open enough to accommodate the mature size of the tree, in an area of full sun and with well-drained, sandy loam.

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