Avocado Tree (Transplant)

I will walk you through how I transplant my Avocado trees. Now I intend to keep this in a pot rather than planting it in the ground, but you can use similar soils and just increase the amount.

 

Just a note for those transplanting a tree in poor soil, like red clay. Okinawa is notorious for it's red clay. In this situation plant your tree on a raised mound. If the primary root grows into the red clay, it will most likely die of root rot.

 

Avocado trees need the following nutrients for healthy growth:

• Nitrogen — for growth and development.
• Potassium — for growth and fruit bearing.
• Boron — growth.
• Zinc — fruit.
• Phosphorous — healthy metabolism.
• Calcium — roots, good structure.
• Magnesium — photosynthesis.
• Sulfur.

 

Well, lets get started...

This is the sapling I've been growing in water for months. It did not start to grow until recently, but when it started to grow it grew quickly. Normally, I cut the tip off when it gets 8 to 10 inches tall to promote more branches, but I waited too long, so I'm transplanting it now before it gets any taller. 

High quality flower and vegetable potting soil. 

Red soil beads. I use this soil to help keep the mix loose. It adds space and helps the roots breath and water drain. 

Fertilizer pellets. These pellets really charge the soil quickly. I will need more Potassium later, but will add more nutrients when I feed the tree, which I will do about every two weeks using liquid fertilize.

• Nitrogen 5
• Phosphate 4
• Potassium 1

Standard potting soil for fill. 

Straw, grass cutting or mulch for bedding. 

Some people use pebbles or some sort of screen at the bottom of their pots, but I typically use mulch, straw or grass cuttings.

I add one third part of each soil, plus throw a handful of fertilizer pellets in the mix. 

Mix well.

Fill the planter halfway. Hold the tree and gently sit the roots on the soil without letting go and slow add soil around the tree. The roots are super sensitive, so it is critical to take your time. 

Water well and place in a location that does not get too much direct sun or wind until the roots settle. I usually sit it inside near a window for a week or so before moving outside.