Classroom Avocado from Pit: Fixing Leaf Drop and Trying New Seeds

Current Avocado Issue

Leaf drop with only two top leaves suggests the plant was potted too early or roots are compromised. Cut back the stem by 1 inch to stimulate stronger growth. Once a crown of 4–6 leaves forms, transplant to a small container.

Germinating New Pits

• Root should be 2–3 inches long before potting.
• Paper‑towel method can be faster than water.
• Change water daily if using water method.

Fun Seeds to Try from Food

• Papaya: Dry seeds several days to a week. Grow as tropical foliage; may fruit in 9 months under ideal conditions. Move outside in spring, but winter kills it.
• Citrus (orange, lemon, grapefruit), apple, pear, cherry, pomegranate – all germinate but most won’t fruit true or at all in containers.

Avocados are tricky; papaya is a rewarding, fast tropical for classroom windowsills.