Successfully Grow avocado seed plants by learning their changing light requirements. My indoor Hass seedling grew well using 700 lux grow lights, even while I killed another plant at a south-facing window. As they get older, you will need to balance the intensity and duration of your light source. Remember, young trees need a lower light intensity than older trees.
Seedlings (0-6 months)
- 500-800 lux bright indirect light
- 12-14 hours daily under full-spectrum LEDs
- Keep 18+ inches from hot windows
Young Plants (6-18 months)
- Gradually introduce morning sun
- Maintain 1000-1500 lux for 10+ hours
- Use 30% shade cloth outdoors
Mature Trees (3+ years)
- 6+ hours direct sunlight daily
- Tolerate 3000+ lux afternoon intensity
- Rotate potted trees weekly
Modified artificial lighting on a seasonal basis. For example, in winter, I set my LED panels to 10 inches above the foliage, and increased intensity by 20%. Summer requires light diffusion by using screens made from parchment paper. Watch for the orientation of the foliage; if the plants are leaning toward the light, be sure to adjust their location every 3 days.
Sunburn Signs
- Bleached leaf patches
- Crispy brown edges
- Sudden leaf drop
Low Light Stress
- Stretched internodes
- Pale green leaves
- Slow growth
Use smartphone apps or a lux meter to monitor light levels. My $15 lux meter verified spots on my balcony obtained 2200 lux at midday; the ideal lux level for my 2-year-old trees. Document changes. When plants received a steady 1200+ lux, they grew 40% faster over three months than the same plants with varying lux amounts.
Read the full article: How to Grow Avocado Seed Successfully Every Time
