FROM: JACKSON, FEATHERSTON

AVOCADO FROM SEED

I cannot tell you how many times I have been asked how long it takes for an avocado tree to fruit, so I thought I would share what I know about the subject.

I sprouted an avocado seed five years ago and while it has grown into a nice little bushy tree, I have yet to see any fruit. As a contrast, I purchased a grafted avocado from my favourite garden centre at the same time and I got some fruit last year.

While I understand it can take anywhere from three to 12 years for a seed-sprouted avocado tree to produce, I also know that some of those self-seeded bushes may never fruit as the seed may be sterile.

So, now I tell people they are best to buy a grafted avo from a good garden supplies store or outlet if they want to grow and harvest their own avocados.