Good Day,
I have a huge indoor avocado tree that’s about 40 years old (not kidding). It’s been cutback but not for many years. It’s about 7+ feet tall and has grown out of control. I’d like to prune it back to about 4’ and thin it out. I’ve attached a picture.
Thank you for your help!
Avocados are native to central Mexico and require heat and sun to grow into fruiting trees. Without sufficient sun the tree will become straggly. Generally one would prune the young stem above a node to encourage new growth as well as pinch out the tip for stronger and bushier growth in the summer.
With an older plant, you can prune back hard. It can handle it.
In terms of when to prune the avocado plant, early spring is best. To do this, take a sharp pair of scissors and cut off the top on the main shoot, just above a leaf node. The avocado plant will branch out and sprout again from this point. Proceed in a similar way with well-developed side shoots.
As the roots outgrow the pot, repotting in the spring to a pot one size larger with well-draining soil will encourage root growth. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not soggy which could result in root rot. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer.
More information can be found here.
May 26, 2024