Step-by-Step Guide to Growing Avocados in Pots
1. Choose the Right Variety
Not all avocado trees are suitable for containers. Choose dwarf or smaller varieties like:
- Wurtz (Little Cado) – Ideal for pots.
- Holiday
- Lamb Hass
2. Start from a Young Tree
It’s best to buy a grafted sapling from a nursery. While you can grow one from seed, it can take 5–10 years to bear fruit and may not produce good quality.
3. Select the Right Pot
- Size: 15–25 gallon pot (at least 18 inches wide and deep).
- Material: Plastic or ceramic with good drainage.
- Drainage holes are crucial.
4. Use Well-Draining Soil
- Mix: Potting soil + perlite or sand for drainage.
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6–7).
5. Planting the Tree
- Place a layer of gravel at the bottom.
- Add soil, place the tree, and fill around the roots.
- Keep the graft union above soil level.
6. Watering
- Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Water deeply once the top 2 inches of soil dry out.
- Avoid overwatering—avocados hate wet feet.
7. Sunlight
- Needs 6–8 hours of direct sunlight.
- Place near a south-facing window or outdoors in warm seasons.
8. Fertilizing
- Use a balanced fertilizer or one high in nitrogen.
- Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring–fall).
9. Pruning
- Prune to maintain size and encourage bushy growth.
- Pinch the tips when the plant reaches 12–18 inches.
10. Protect from Cold
- Avocados are frost-sensitive.
- Move indoors or to a sheltered area in winter.
11. Pollination
- Some varieties need another tree to pollinate.
- Wurtz is self-pollinating, but having two can improve yield.
Benefits of Growing Your Own
- No more buying expensive avocados.
- Control over what goes into your food.
- Fun, rewarding gardening project.