Avocado Tree

Winter hardy to USDA Zones 10-12 where it grows best in rich, loose, evenly moist, well-drained soils in full sun. Plants will tolerate some light shade, but are best in warm and sunny conditions. Intolerant of frost. Commercial varieties are planted by root stocks or grafting. Houseplants are often grown from seed which may be sprouted in water or directly in soil. For sprouting in water, wash the seed, insert three toothpicks into the side of the seed halfway up and suspend the seed in a glass of water (broad end down) with water covering the bottom 1/3 of the seed. Change water regularly. When seed splits and roots appear (2-6 weeks), transplant to a pot with plotting soil. Pits may also be planted directly in soil (rather than using the water glass routine), with 2/3 of the pit under an evenly moist but not wet soil. Established plants like sunny windows. Fertilize mature plants regularly in spring and summer. Indoor plants are attractive but normally will not produce fruit.