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In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of people opting to grow their own food, particularly avocados, right in their garden. This growing trend in home gardening is part of a broader movement toward sustainability and self-sufficiency. If you’re interested in the idea of growing your own avocado tree and reaping its delicious rewards, this guide will help you make your green aspirations a reality. ad ad 1. Start with a seed The beginning of your journey begins with a simple avocado seed, the one you would normally throw away after enjoying the fruit. Unlike commercial growers who have a plethora of seeds from their products, you will likely start with an avocado seed that you have eaten. Avocado seeds exhibit a fascinating robustness and unique variability; each has the potential to give rise to a tree producing a distinct variety of avocado. 2. Preparation and planting Once you have your seed, the first step is to plant it in a suitable environment. Here’s how to do it: Choose the right container: Opt for a gallon pot, which is ideal for accommodating the seed’s growth while remaining manageable in terms of size and water needs. Soil and fertilizer: Fill the pot with standard, well-aerated and well-drained potting soil, thus promoting the development of young roots. Add a tablespoon of balanced fertilizer (6-6-6) to feed the seed without overdoing it. Planting the seed: Place the seed in the soil with the “navel” side down, leaving about a third of the seed exposed above the soil. Watering: Be sure to keep the soil moist without waterlogging it. The frequency of watering will depend on your local climate, but in general, watering every other day is a good rule to follow. 3. Encourage Growth In the early stages, the seed will focus on developing a strong root system before germinating above ground. This phase of underground growth is crucial because the roots are responsible for absorbing nutrients and water, elements necessary for the development of the tree.
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