Before we start, I just want you to know that odds are, your avocado plant is not going to produce fruit, or, if it does, it will take many years and may not produce good fruit. Growing an avocado from seed is the slowest and least reliable way to get true (same as the parent) fruit. Commercial growers use grafting methods to ensure fruit quality and quantity that are not really possible for home growers. But, starting a plant from the pit is an easy way to grow a beautiful, free houseplant. If it does fruit, it could take as long as 4-20 years.
It takes 4-6 weeks for avocado seeds to root and produce leaves so it does take a while, however germinating the seed is easy and no fuss.
First step is to remove the seed from a fresh, ripe avocado. Avoid using a knife so there is no damage to the seed. Gently clean the seed under warm, running water to remove any flesh. Then peel off the skin. You can do this by scraping your nail or using an old toothbrush. This step is optional however I personally have had a faster germination rate with this method and it also plays a role in preventing mold growth.
Next, wrap the seed in a sheet of damp (not dripping wet) paper towel, place it in a zip lock bag and store in a dark cupboard. From then, all you have to do is check on it every 4 days or so to ensure the paper towel stays damp and that there's no mold. If the paper towel has a tangy smell to it, change the towel and gently wash the seed.
After a few weeks you’ll start to notice signs of germination. When the seed is germinating, it will gradually crack open, revealing a deep split, and, eventually a root (or roots) will grow from inside the seed. Note: Do not break the seed apart: the seed body feeds the root growth, and the roots are delicate, so handle with care and do not break them Note: Do not break the seed apart: the seed body feeds the root growth, and the roots are delicate, so handle with care and do not break them.
Fast forward another two weeks or so and you should see the stem developing inside the pit. If roots are over seven centimetres and there's stem growth, it's time for the next step. Take three toothpicks and stick them at a slight downward angle into the avocado seed, spaced evenly around the circumference of the avocado. These will allow you to rest the bottom half (root end) of the avocado in water, so therefore the toothpicks need to be wedged in there firmly. Be careful when inserting the toothpicks as you can damage seed if it's handled too roughly.
Then sit the avocado over a glass, jar or cup of tap water and place near a bright windowsill. Make sure to change the water every five days to a week or so. You do want to ensure you change the water regularly, to prevent mold, bacteria and fungus growth, which can kill your little avocado sprout.
Once your stem reaches fifteen or so centimetres, you can cut it back down to five centimetres. This will promote bushier new growth but this step is optional. When it reaches fifteen centimetres again, you can plant it directly in soil (preferably a humus mix) or leave it in water.
My avocado is currently developing it's leaves at two months old.
