Avocado Pit Propagation: Detailed Toothpick Method and Long-Term Care

Steve wants specifics on which end up and how to sprout. The pointed end goes up; the flat, broader end goes in water/soil.

Toothpick Method (Step-by-Step)

1. Clean pit; insert 3–4 toothpicks ¼ inch below flat end, angled slightly down.
2. Suspend in a 6-inch jar, flat end in water, pointed end up.
3. Change water every 2 days.
4. In 4–8 weeks, root emerges from flat end tip.
5. Pot immediately in a wide, deep container (12+ inches), 2× pit depth.
6. Keep moist, warm, bright.

Long-Term Care

• Pinch tip at 4 feet for branching.
• Frost-tender: move indoors before freeze.
• Winter: cool (50–60°F), bright, minimal water, no fertilizer.
• Spring: acclimate 1 week in shade, then full sun.

Seed-grown = ornamental only. Fruit requires grafted tree.