Learn How to Sprout an Avocado Tree

Want to grow your very own tree for Tu B’Shevat—or anytime? The next time you eat an avocado, save the pit for sprouting. Most avocado trees grown from just the seed itself won’t bear fruit, but they can still provide the wonderful experience of caring for a plant.

Supplies

• Avocado pit

• Toothpicks

• Glass of water

Directions

1. Wash your avocado pit. Carefully stick three toothpicks in it and suspend the broad end of the pit into the glass of water so that it’s mostly submerged.
2. Place the glass in a warm spot, but not in direct sunlight. Over time, the water level will lower. Add more water as needed to keep the pit wet.
3. In the next 2 to 6 weeks, you’ll notice the roots and stem beginning to sprout. When the stem is 6 to 7 inches long, cut it back several inches. When the roots thicken and the stem grows new leaves, transplant it into a pot of soil, leaving the top half of the pit exposed—or, if you live in a warm enough climate, you can plant it outdoors. Place it in a sunny spot, water it regularly, and don’t forget to celebrate its birthday!