How to transplant sprouted avocado seeds?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Grow avocado seed sprouts successfully by transplanting at the crucial 3-inch (7.6 cm) root length stage. Since adopting this principle, I've lost a lot fewer seedlings since roots shorter than 2 inches struggle to anchor, and roots longer than 3 inches will tangle when transferring into a pot. I use translucent cups because they provide a way to check on the roots without disturbing them.
Root Prep
- Trim broken roots with sterilized scissors
- Soak in kelp solution for 30 minutes
- Dust cuts with cinnamon to prevent rot
Aftercare
- Mist leaves daily for 2 weeks
- Delay fertilizing for 1 month
- Use bamboo stakes for wind protection
Shock Signs
- Drooping leaves persisting 48+ hours
- Reddish stem discoloration
- Sudden leaf yellowing
Drainage Fixes
- Add 1" lava rocks to pot base
- Mix 20% coarse sand into soil
- Drill side holes if water pools
Create amendment-free soil mixes for avocado seedlings. My favorite consists of 40% cactus soil, 30% perlite, 20% coconut coir, and 10% worm castings. This mixture prevents your seedlings from sitting in saturated conditions while providing feed for young plants. Measure drainage by pouring 2 cups of water onto the soil; it should all completely crop out in less than 30 seconds or less. If pooling occurs, adjust the percentages accordingly.
Rent a garden log and keep track of every single transplant. It's important to log the length of the roots, the size of the pot, and even the weather conditions. I started tracking my transplants, and I'm convinced that seedlings that are potted at 68°F (20°C) are at least 25% faster than when they were potted during a heat wave. It's worth sharing with a local growing organization to learn more about the best techniques in transplanting.
Read the full article: How to Grow Avocado Seed Successfully Every Time
