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Avocado Plant - Potted and Leggy! #736840

Asked January 17, 2021, 1:20 PM EST

Hi from the UWS! I sprouted an avocado seed in June ‘20, then tossed it in a pot on my balcony and forgot about it. A couple of months later it had grown into a lovely little plant! When it got tall enough I trimmed it (per the internet’s suggestions) in an effort to make it shorter and bushier, but that didn’t work. Now that it lives indoors for the winter it’s grown a tall, spindly shoot with leaves on the top. I’m afraid to cut it again because I want it to live. I read an article suggesting I bend it and weigh it down, which would encourage leaves to sprout along the side of the long stem. Would that work? Open to any and all advice. I know it will never fruit but I love it and want to keep it healthy. Thank you!!

New York County New York

Expert Response

Your youngster looks fine, and probably needs little cutting back presently. Below is the care regimen for your avocado. Thank you for your question.

An avocado growing from seed should be cut back from the start. This is the best way to achieve a many-branched, well-shaped tree.  When your new plant is 6 or 7 inches high, cut the stem at a point midway between its top and bottom, using scissors. The remaining stem should be no shorter than 3 inches high. The plant will take about a week or two to start growing again but it will then grow into a nice, small bush.

A mature plant should also be pruned regularly. Cutting back keeps the plant in an attractive shape. Cut back both the growing tip and any side branches that have become too long. All branch cuts should be made close to the trunk or branch. Do not be afraid of cutting back too much; the plant will eventually recover.

Hope this is helpful. If you have more questions let us know.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied January 18, 2021, 8:57 AM EST

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