How to grow your very own avocado tree from a leftover pit

For all you avocado lovers out there...

We're all aware that avocados are gifts that just keep on giving: from guacamole and smashed avocado on toast, to chunky salad toppings and even avocado desserts; they're a global phenomenon. And as sunnier days are fast approaching, it's only a matter of time before we start serving up rainbow salads for lunch, and our favourite creamy fruit smeared on wholemeal bread for breakfasts.

Unfortunately, avocados are among the pricer clan of fruit and can become an expensive go-to snack depending of how often you like to devour the creamy goodness.

Well, here's the fortunate part: you can grow an avocado tree in your very own home, and all you need is a leftover pit and a few other common supplies.

What you'll need to grow an avocado tree

How to grow an avocado tree

1. Save an avocado pit without damaging it (there should be no cracking or breakage), and wash off any residue.

2. Let the pit dry, and then insert 3-4 toothpicks about halfway up the side of the avocado pit.

3. Suspend the pit with the larger end down into the drinking glass/ jar, and fill the container with enough water to submerge the bottom third of the avocado pit- this is the best way to go about it, according to Good House Keeping's article.

4. It's important that the glass/ jar isn't it direct sunlight. We advise placing it somewhere warm, out of direct sunlight, and change the water regularly (ensuring the bottom third of the pit is always submerged).

Note: Roots and a sprout should begin to appear in about 2-6 weeks. If this doesn't happen, restart the process with a new seed.

5. When the sprout grows to around 6 inches tall, you'll need to cut it back to about 3 inches to promote further growth.

6. The stem should start to grow out again, and when this happens, it is time to transfer the pit to the 10 inch pot along with the potting soil.

Now, after all these steps have been successfully completed- its time to let you little fella grow!

How to care for your avocado tree

1. Keep the soil moist but do not overwater. Overwatering the plant will cause the leaves to curl, and then the stem will soften- this is not a healthy trait for a developing avocado plant. The same goes for under watering: this can cause the foliage to dry, wilt and drop. Be watchful and ensure the soil is always moist.

2. Feed the little trooper. Like many houseplants, the avocado plant will need to be fed. Make sure to fertilise the plant every three months with a small amount of water-soluble plant food, this maintains the plants' health and promotes deep green foliage.

3. Moving the avocado plant. In the warmer months you'll probably be wondering whether or not your plant can survive outside. Well, yes it can. In fact: the only way your avocado tree will bear fruit is if it eventually gets planted outside. So, just move the plant to a fairly shaded area and be confident in knowing that it is safe to do so.

Note: To encourage branching, cut the stem back about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 9 inches). Repeat the process for further branching (every 6 inches)

If you're expecting fruit- the not so fortunate note is that it can take between 5-13 years before an actual avocado makes an appearance. But, fear not- because with the right care, a frequent vacation outdoors, and a lot of patience, the avocado tree could be a real asset in your future garden if it begins to bear fruit.

If you want to skip the process and be sure to plant a tree that bears avocado fruit, you could go for something like this:

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