Green-fingered Brits are being encouraged to think twice before tossing out avocado stones, as experts reveal they could be the secret to growing elegant houseplants, and, with patience, even homegrown fruit. The humble avocado, long hailed as a health food staple, has seen a surge in popularity over the last decade.
But with prices climbing due to costly imports and the fruit’s preference for tropical climates, the idea of cultivating your own has gained unexpected traction. Though the UK’s cool and wet conditions aren’t ideal for avocado farming, experts say it is possible to grow avocado plants indoors, and it all starts with saving the seed.
“Avocados make surprisingly attractive houseplants,” says Gardener’s World, which recently shared guidance on how to grow a plant from the stone of a shop-bought fruit. “If you like a challenge and have plenty of patience, you can grow an avocado from seed.”
To begin, carefully clean the stone and either pot it directly in moist, peat-free compost or suspend it over a glass of water using toothpicks, ensuring the base is in contact with the water. In the right warm and humid conditions, roots should start to appear after six weeks.
The stone can also be placed on a sunny windowsill or in a warm, dark cupboard to encourage germination. Once it splits and begins to sprout, it can be planted in soil and moved into a larger pot as it grows.
Experts caution that not all varieties will germinate easily. Haas avocados, the most common variety found in UK supermarkets, can be particularly tricky to grow from seed.
Nonetheless, with care, water, and regular feeding, an avocado plant can become a long-lasting addition to your home.
While it’s unlikely the tree will bear fruit anytime soon – avocado trees can take up to ten years to produce and often require tropical conditions. But the plant’s lush, glossy leaves make it a stylish and eco-friendly houseplant alternative.
Aside from the aesthetic appeal, the trend aligns with growing interest in sustainability and reducing food waste. By repurposing avocado pits, households can contribute to greener living while embracing a slow, rewarding gardening project.
So next time you slice into an avocado, don’t bin the seed. With some effort and a little patience, that stone might just grow into something special.