What’s the best water for seed-starting avocado? Is there a way to speed up the germination of an avocado seed? What happens if you add a nutrient solution to the water?
We’ll try to answer those questions with our little experiment.
Water Comparison for Seed Starting Avocado
Over 33 days, we experimented to determine the optimal water conditions for sprouting avocado seeds. Three identical seeds from consumption-ready avocados (varying slightly in ripeness) were washed, peeled, and placed in separate glasses on the same day. The water conditions were as follows:
- Left: Tap water (dechlorinated for 24 hours) with added nutrient solution
- Middle: Unflavored mineral water (not distilled or sparkling)
- Right: Mineral water with added nutrient solution
The water level was consistently maintained throughout the 33-day period, replenishing as needed and replacing it entirely once due to cloudiness. Two basic white LED light strips, positioned parallel above the seeds, provided consistent illumination.
For this experiment, we utilized Yamasaki Hydroponics Solution (this is not a sponsored post) as the nutrient supplement.
Feel free to use alternative hydroponic nutrient solutions available in your area, as the principles remain the same. Most solutions come in two parts (Part A and Part B) that need to be diluted in water.
As a reference, here’s the usage for two common brands:
Yamasaki Hydroponic Nutrient Solution:
- Leafy Plants: Add 2 ml of both Part A and Part B per 1 liter of water (4 ml total).
- Fruit Plants: Add 2.5 ml of both Part A and Part B per 1 liter of water (5 ml total).
Pure Produce Hydroponic Nutrient Solution:
- Add 1 ounce of both Part A and Part B per 1 gallon of water (2 oz total).
Remember: Always consult the specific instructions provided with your chosen nutrient solution, as dilution ratios may vary based on the brand and plant type.
Observations:
The avocado seed submerged in mineral water alone (middle glass) was the first to sprout, followed closely by the seed in mineral water with added nutrient solution (right glass).
Black spots appear in the roots that are exposed to the nutrient solution.
Even though the middle seed was the first to show its root, it stayed dormant for a while.
The first to develop a stem was the one on the right (mineral water + nutrient solution), followed by the one on the left (tap water + nutrient solution).
The root system is far more elaborate and looks healthier on the left seed (tap water + nutrient solution). It also gave us three stems in one seed.
While the avocado seed in mineral water with added nutrient solution (right glass) initially thrived, developing a robust stem and leaves, it eventually succumbed to root rot. This is likely due to fungal growth, potentially accelerated by residual brown skin on the seed.
To prevent root rot in future experiments, ensure meticulous removal of all brown skin from the seed and maintain a more frequent water replacement schedule.
In 33 days, both seeds on the left and right were able to sprout and the one in the middle was left behind.
We started this experiment on July 17. We removed the sprouted seeds and planted them in soil on Aug. 19. Exactly 52 days from the start of the experiment, the middle seed still hasn’t sprouted yet.
Based on our observations, it’s highly likely that the germination process can be accelerated. The addition of a nutrient solution appeared to significantly influence the speed of sprouting, as the seed in mineral water with added nutrients showed the fastest stem development.
Furthermore, the consistent use of LED lights for 12 hours a day likely contributed to both rapid sprouting and a shorter main stem, as the plant sought the light source. The leaves on this plant also appear wider compared to a control seed grown indoors with only dechlorinated tap water and no focused light, which resulted in a significantly leggier plant.
These findings suggest that a combination of nutrient solution and consistent light exposure can potentially expedite the germination process and promote healthier growth in avocado seedlings. However, it’s crucial to maintain a clean environment and proper care to avoid issues like root rot.
What’s the Best Water for Seed-Starting Avocado?
Our experiment suggests that both mineral water with nutrient solution and dechlorinated tap water with nutrient solution can be effective for germinating avocado seeds. While the mineral water initially showed the fastest growth, it’s crucial to note that careful hygiene and environmental control are essential regardless of the chosen water.
If cost is a concern, dechlorinated tap water with nutrient solution is a more economical option. Bottled mineral water might be preferable if you have doubts about your tap water quality.
Ultimately, the “best” water for sprouting your avocado seed might depend on your circumstances and preferences.
To see the results of our 33-day avocado seed sprouting experiment showcasing the different water conditions, check out this timelapse:
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