Avocado care guide
Persea americana
Also known as: Alligator pear
Pets and children
Considered toxic
The leaves, skin and pit contain persin, which is especially dangerous to birds, rabbits and hamsters and can cause vomiting or diarrhea in dogs and cats; a swallowed pit can also block the gut, so keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian if eaten.
How often to water Avocado
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, about every one to two days in summer, and empty the saucer afterward.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- As a guide, water every two to four days once the surface dries, since the soil holds moisture longer now.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 7 days
- Growth slows indoors: about once a week, a few days after the soil dries, using water that is not cold.
Light and placement for Avocado
It likes plenty of light: as a guide, a sunny spot outdoors from spring to fall, since behind a sheer curtain indoors it generally stretches for light; move it into full sun gradually.
Overwintering Avocado
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
A young tree is tender, so keep it above 5°C as a guide: bring it to a bright room when nights fall below about 10°C, away from the cold window at night and from the direct blast of a heater.
Fertilizing and repotting Avocado
Fertilizer
As a guide, slow-release fertilizer about every two months or liquid feed about twice a month from April to October, none in winter; overfeeding generally browns the leaf tips.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Avocado
- Overwatering rots the roots and the leaves darken and drop.
- Cold at a winter window or hot air from a heater browns the leaves.
- A seed-grown tree gets huge without ever fruiting.
Tips for growing Avocado
- Plant the pit pointed end up, half buried, somewhere warm; it sprouts in about one to two months.
- Pinching the tip at about 30 cm makes it branch into a fuller shape.
- For fruit, start from grafted trees and pair two varieties with different flowering types.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
