Dig a hole slightly deeper and wider than the bag. DO NOT include any fertiliser in the hole as this can very easily burn the roots. When planting the tree try to minimise root damage. Use the following method and also refer to our Planting Video.
- Cut the base of the bag and remove the base. Then cut a slit half way up the bag.
- Place the tree in the hole, fold up the cut bag and cover the exposed root ball with soil.
- Slit the remainder of the bag, remove, and cover the remaining roots with soil, gently pressing from the sides towards the centre. Care must be taken at this stage as the roots of avocado trees are very brittle and break easily.
- NEVER TEASE OUT THE ROOTS!
- Do not tamp the soil down with your feet.
- Position the tree in such a way that most of the branches and leaves face the direction of the sun in order to protect the tree against sunburn.
Soon after planting, the young trees should be supported with a strong wooden stake. Do not push the stake through the nursery growing media as this will damage the roots. Tie the tree firmly to the stake attaching above the side branches. Regularly check that the ties are still effective (every four to six weeks) and note that it may be necessary to loosen the ties to prevent them from strangling the tree.
Irrigate well after planting as this helps to bring the soil into close contact with the root ball.