Pruning avocado plant stems is the key to bushy growth. Pinch off the top growth when your plant reaches 12 to 15 inches (30-38 cm) tall. This forces side branches to sprout and fills out the plant shape.
My first avocado grew as a single tall stick for months until I learned about pinching. After I removed the top two leaves the stem split into four side branches within two months. The plant looked like a completely different species once it filled out. Now I pinch all my avocados and they all grow thick and bushy.
The science behind this trick is simple. The growing tip at the top of your plant sends out hormones that stop side buds from growing. When you remove that tip the hormones stop flowing and sleeping buds along the stem wake up. Each bud can become a new branch heading in a different direction.
Iowa State University says to pinch the growing point when your seedling hits that 12 to 15 inch mark. Waiting longer works too but your plant will be taller and skinnier before it branches. Pinching avocado plant tips early gives you a fuller shape from the start.
The technique takes just seconds. Find the very top of your plant where the newest tiny leaves are forming. Use your thumb and finger to snap off or pinch away just the top inch or two. You can also use clean scissors if you prefer a cleaner cut.
First Pinch Timing
- Height matters: Wait until your plant reaches 12-15 inches tall with at least six sets of leaves before the first pinch.
- Strong stem: The main stem should feel firm and woody at the base before you start pruning the top growth.
- Growing season: Do your first pinch in spring or summer when the plant can recover fast and push new growth.
Ongoing Pruning
- Regular pinching: Pinch each new branch tip after it grows about 6 inches (15 cm) to encourage more branching.
- Even shape: Prune longer branches more and shorter ones less to keep your plant looking balanced all around.
- Never stop: Continue pinching throughout the life of your plant to maintain that bushy full appearance you want.
What to Remove
- Just the tip: Only remove the top inch or two with the newest baby leaves where growth is happening.
- Keep most leaves: Leave the older mature leaves alone since your plant needs them for energy and food.
- No major cuts: Avoid cutting thick woody stems unless you need to reshape a plant that got out of control.
To make avocado bushy you need patience after each pinch. New branches take 2 to 4 weeks to show up after you remove the tip. Resist the urge to pinch again too soon. Let each round of growth develop before you start the next round of pruning.
These avocado branching tips work on plants of any age. I started pinching a three year old leggy plant and it filled out within six months. Even old plants can learn new tricks if you give them the right signals.
You can root the pieces you pinch off to make new plants. Stick them in water or moist soil and some will grow roots. This turns pruning into free plants for friends or for filling out your own collection.
Keep pinching and your avocado will stay bushy and full for years. Skip the pruning and your plant will grow tall and spindly with leaves only at the very top. A few seconds of work every month gives you a much nicer looking plant.
Read the full article: Growing Avocado Seed Successfully Every Time
