AboutTom Alonzo Expertise I have been growing plants from seeds for at least 20 years. I have grown literally hundreds of different kinds of vegetables, trees, shrubs, annuals, perennials, tropicals, some cacti, water plants, iris, rose, lilies, cannas, etc. I enjoy starting from seed.
Experience I've been growing my own seeds for 20 years with indoor propagation equipment I built myself. I am also an Allexperts volunteer on the perennial forum. I have completed the Master Gardener course through the Kansas State University Extension. I have experience with a wide variety of seeds and I have also read through Norm Deno's books on seed germination.
Question I have an avocado sapling that is about two months old (approx. 12-14 inches) and that, until recently, was progressing quite well. I have it in-doors on a south-facing window sill in well draining soil. Over the last couple of days several of its initial leaves have shriveled and turned brown. However, it has also sprouted new leaves which appear to be doing well. Should I be at all concerned about the shriveling of the initial leaves? Thank you much in advance.
Answer Hi Matt,
Thanx for your question. It's normal for leaves to age, shrivel up and fall off. If your tree weren't replacing them with new leaves I might be concerned but I think your tree is just discarding old leaves. Summertime is a great time to let your indoor plants like potted avocadoes have a summer vacation. Put them outdoors in the shade for 10 days and then in full sun until just before the first frost is anticipated. Your plant will be much healthier getting real sun and being out in the real elements. Be sure to water every day. Side dress the soil in the pot with some well-composted manure. I hope this helps.
Tom
