How to Grow an Avocado Tree Indoors, According to Horticulturists

How to Grow an Avocado Tree Indoors, According to Horticulturists

By Eng. Mohamed Omar Abdille
Aaran Agricultural Development (AAD)

Growing an avocado tree indoors is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of the tropics into your home. While it may take several years (and optimal conditions) for an indoor avocado tree to bear fruit, the plant itself is attractive and air-purifying. Here’s a complete, horticulturist-approved guide to growing an avocado tree indoors successfully.

🌱 Step 1: Start from Seed or Buy a Young Tree

Option A: Start from Seed (The Fun Way)

Remove the seed from a ripe avocado and rinse it gently.
Suspend the seed over a jar of water using three toothpicks inserted around its sides, leaving the bottom half submerged.
Place the jar in a warm, bright spot (indirect sunlight).
Wait for sprouting, which takes 2–6 weeks. Roots will grow from the bottom, and a stem will emerge from the top.

Option B: Buy a Grafted Dwarf Avocado Tree (Faster and Reliable)

Choose a dwarf variety like Wurtz (also called "Little Cado") for indoor growing.
This ensures better growth indoors and increases chances of fruiting.

☀️ Step 2: Provide Optimal Light

Avocado trees need 6–8 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day.
A south- or west-facing window is ideal. If your home lacks sunlight, use grow lights to supplement.
Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even growth.

🌡️ Step 3: Maintain Ideal Temperature and Humidity

Avocados love warm temperatures: 60°F–85°F (15°C–29°C).
Protect from cold drafts, and avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Indoor air can be dry, so maintain moderate humidity (40–60%) using a humidity tray, pebble dish, or humidifier.

🌿 Step 4: Use the Right Soil and Pot

Choose a well-draining potting mix—ideally one meant for citrus or cactus.
Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Repot the tree annually as it grows, especially during the first few years.

💧 Step 5: Water Properly

Keep the soil lightly moist, not soggy.
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in winter when growth slows down.

🌱 Step 6: Prune and Shape

Pinch back new growth when the plant is about 12 inches tall to encourage bushiness.
Prune in spring to shape the tree and remove weak or leggy stems.
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid infections.

🧪 Step 7: Fertilize Wisely

Feed the tree with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (like 10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring through fall).
Reduce or stop fertilizing in winter.

🥑 Step 8: Be Patient About Fruit

Most indoor avocado trees don’t bear fruit, especially those grown from seed.
Grafted dwarf trees have a better chance—but even then, it may take 3–5 years or more.
Even without fruit, they’re beautiful, glossy-leafed houseplants.

🍁 Step 9: Monitor for Pests and Problems

Watch for spider mites, aphids, and scale insects.
Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and discourage pests.
Use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.

🌳 Final Tips

Don’t overwater—it’s the number one mistake with indoor avocado trees.
Provide strong light for strong growth.
Don’t expect fast fruiting indoors—appreciate the plant for its beauty first.

✅ Conclusion

Growing an avocado tree indoors is a satisfying journey in patience and plant care. With proper lighting, warmth, water, and care, your indoor avocado can thrive and bring greenery and joy to your home—even if it never bears fruit. And who knows? With the right dwarf variety and a bit of luck, you might one day harvest your own indoor-grown avocado.

How to Grow an Avocado Tree Indoors, According to Horticulturists