Grow an Avocado Tree

Materials

• Avocado seed
• Sharp nail
• 3 round toothpicks
• Tumbler

Directions

1. Pierce the avocado seed with the nail to make three holes evenly spaced around the middle of the seed.
2. Insert a toothpick in each hole.
3. Fill the tumbler with water and balance the avocado seed on the top, making sure the bottom of the seed is in the water.
4. Place on a window ledge.
5. Soon it will begin to produce a root and a shoot.
6. As soon as the shoot has a few leaves, snip off the top ones to encourage the plant to branch out.
7. Pot the little tree when the roots are thick. If you live in a warm climate, you can plant the tree outside.
8. Remember to keep it watered.

Note: The avocado is an evergreen tree which can grow to thirty feet. There are two main kinds—Mexican and Guatemalan. The botanical name is Lauracaea.

More on: Outdoor Activities for Children Ages 6-10