How to Transplant an Avocado Tree
How to Transplant an Avocado Tree. Avocados are valued for their wonderful flavor and texture. The trees are heavy bloomers, but only about 1 percent of these blooms will produce fruit. Some people prefer the non-fruit producing variety as these evergreen trees make less of a mess and are prized for their beauty and shade quality. Generally,...
Avocados are valued for their wonderful flavor and texture. The trees are heavy bloomers, but only about 1 percent of these blooms will produce fruit. Some people prefer the non-fruit producing variety as these evergreen trees make less of a mess and are prized for their beauty and shade quality. Generally, avocado trees must be grown in warmer climates such as southern California.
Things You'll Need
Gloves
Shovel
Sandy or loamy soil
Processed manure
Compost
Water
Garden shoes or boots
Steps
Water the tree in its container or burlap ball before planting to be sure the roots are moist.
Dig a hole about 3 feet in diameter and 3 feet deep in a sunny location. Avocado trees will grow in a shady spot, but they will not produce fruit in shade. Don't plant them near other trees---they have very aggressive roots. According to crfg.org (California Rare Fruit Growers), it is a good idea to give them about 20 feet of their own space.
Add about 12 to 18 inches of processed manure to the bottom of the hole if the soil is poor and tamp it down. Sandy or loamy soil is preferred by young avocado trees. Do not apply fresh manure or fertilizer directly on the roots, as this can burn them.
Add 6 to 8 inches of the soil you dug up over the processed manure and set the tree in the hole.
Fill the rest of the hole with the soil that was removed. Break up any chunks and remove any weeds. If this soil is poor or has a high clay content, mix in compost to help it stay loose. This allows the roots of your new tree to expand easier.
Water the tree. Avocados like plenty of water, especially if you have mixed in a dry compost or dry manure.
Tie the trunk of the young tree to a stake for at least the first year while the roots are taking hold.
Tips & Warnings
Avocado trees should be planted in the spring after the ground has warmed.
If they are not used to full sun, acclimate them slowly over a few weeks before planting in a full sun area. You can also apply whitewash to the trunk to prevent sunburn.
A listing of the different types of avocado trees can be found at crfg.org.
Over-watering can drown your new tree. If you have hard or clay soil, water will absorb more slowly into the surrounding ground. Check for moisture content before watering.
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