Can indoor avocado plants survive year-round?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.To germinate avocado seeds indoors, it is helpful to mimic subtropical conditions. My six-year-old indoor avocado, sited near an east-facing window, has nice leafy growth, but has yet to produce fruit, though it may in the future. The main ingredients include a warm temperature, some filtered light, and humidity levels that most people can attain in the home setting with a few simple adjustments.
Humidity Control
- Use pebble trays filled with water under pots
- Group plants to create microclimates
- Mist air roots twice weekly, avoiding leaf surfaces
Light Management
- 12+ hours of bright, indirect light daily
- Rotate pots 90° every watering session
- Supplement with full-spectrum LEDs in winter
Temperature Stability
- Maintain 65-75°F (18-24°C) daytime temperatures
- Avoid drafts from vents or windows
- Use heat mats during cold snaps below 60°F (15.5°C)
Winter Care
- Reduce watering frequency by 40%
- Wipe leaves monthly to maximize light absorption
- Delay fertilization until spring growth resumes
Summer Care
- Shield plants from intense afternoon sun
- Increase humidity with room humidifiers
- Check for spider mites weekly
Control standard pests of avocado in an organic way. Scale bugs hide underneath waxy shells; remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Spray leaves of spider mites with cooled chamomile tea. I like to quarantine a new plant for 2 weeks in bright light before introducing it to a collection (P-in-2).
Record growth behavior to revise care schedules. My notes on journals showed that the avocado plants had exceptions in growth rate between March and June. Record the count of the leaves, stems, and roots. Share observations in indoor plant communities for troubleshooting tips and advice.
Read the full article: How to Grow Avocado Seed Successfully Every Time
