There's something truly satisfying about growing your own produce at home, and avocados are no exception. In this post, I'll share my personal journey of cultivating avocado plants from seeds. It's a simple and rewarding process that anyone can try, bringing the joy of watching these green wonders thrive right in your own space.
Getting Started:
I embarked on my avocado-growing adventure after enjoying avocados and feeling a twinge of remorse for the discarded seeds. That's when I turned to internet solutions to bring the impressive avocado seeds to life. The excitement surged as I delicately removed the pit and readied it for the germination process. Strategically cutting the avocado skin and using toothpicks to suspend the pit above water were crucial steps.
Germination in Water:
Placing the avocado pits in different water recipients, suspended by toothpicks, initiated the germination process. I chose this method for its simplicity and the joy of witnessing the roots and stem emerge. The water serves as a nurturing environment for the pit to develop roots, and it's a fascinating sight to observe the transformation from seed to sapling. It takes around 3 weeks to see the first grow - but it also depends on the seed - how big and healthy it is.
Patience pays off:
Growing avocados requires patience, as the germination process can take weeks. During this time, it's essential to change the water regularly to ensure cleanliness and provide the developing roots with the nutrients they need. The anticipation builds as you eagerly wait for the first signs of life.
Transplanting:
Once the avocado pit has developed a robust root system and a healthy stem, it will be the time to transplant it into soil. One needs to select a well-draining potting mix and plant the avocado with care, ensuring the roots are well-covered. Position the pot in a sunny spot, as avocados thrive in sunlight. They still need at this step a lot of water and humidity.
Caring for Your Avocado Plant:
Avocado plants are relatively low-maintenance but require proper care for optimal growth. One has to ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged, and fertilize occasionally with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Regular pruning can help shape the plant and encourage bushier growth.
The Rewards:
Watching your avocado plant evolve from a seed to a flourishing plant is a deeply satisfying experience. I currently have 8 baby avocado plants (some of them still on the run to become a plant), and I am eagerly anticipating the transplantation process for some of them. I'm a bit nervous, but I hope it will yield healthy, beautiful, and lively avocados. Witnessing a seed come to life and grow is simply amazing in my eyes.
Not to mention that I've turned my kitchen into a bit of a garden... with avocados in various stages, I need to meticulously tend to them and ensure they receive the right amount of water. I have to relocate them to the balcony, that's for sure. I'm also hopeful that my cats haven't been too curious about them. Lol.
Conclusion:
Growing avocados at home is a fulfilling journey that connects you with the natural cycle of plant life. From carefully planting the seed to nurturing its growth, each step is a testament to the wonders of nature. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, cultivating avocados is a delightful and rewarding endeavor that adds a touch of green to your home.
I must confess that I am not a huge fan of growing plants, particularly because I lack the patience and attentiveness required. There are times when I forget to water plants, or I am simply not adept at it, which is why I typically refrain from cultivating them. However, the experience of growing avocados brought me great joy and brought a rewarding smile to my face. So, I encourage you to give it a try, even if you're not much of a gardener.
---Photos done with my Personal SmartPhone - Not the Best Quality but still Amazing
