Question
Hi Tom,
I have read your comments on planting avocado seeds. I want to plant the seed into soil directly. Which side should be up narrower or wider? And how often should I water the seed and than hopefully the plant? And also I have read that most avocado seedlings do not fruit, in order to increase the chance what should I do? Like planting several ones and cross-pollination, or adding several fertilizer
Thanks in advance,

Answer
Hi Mehmet,
Thanx for your question.  Plant the avocado seed pointed end down about 2 inches deep in a very large pot (10-12 inches wide and 1 foot deep).  Keep the soil uniformly moist but not soggy.  Don't let it dry out.  It will probably take a couple of months for the seed to germinate.  Remember to keep it warm (75 degrees or warmer).  Bottom heat would probably help but is not necessary.  You could place the pot on top of your refrigerator for the heat.  Generally, watering once a week should be enough even after the plant germinates.  The key after germination is strong light otherwise the plant will get spindly.  As soon as you 've had your last frost and temperatures stay above 50 degrees outside, put the plant outside but first place it in the shade for 10 days to acclimatize it.  The outdoor vacation will help the plant grow more evenly but don't let it dry out.  Avocadoes will not fruit if there is not another avocado tree around so they can pollinate each other.  Also, avocado saplings will not fruit until they are 5-7 years old.  After you put the plant outdoors, feed it with a fertilizer rated for container grown fruit trees.  You should be able to find this at a local nursery.  I hope this helps.
Tom