What's your question? Ask

Avocado Trees

Q.Avocado Plant, Stem Get Taller, Leaves Get Bigger, Then Drop Off.

Zone Lewes, Delaware. | Anonymous added on January 21, 2025 | Answered

I do not understand what is wrong with the avocado plant. I have the plant in soil, pit exposed halfway. The stem of the plant is tall, 4 to 6 leaves, but when the leaves finally get large, I notice it starts to turn black. The leaf is all black then drops off. All the leaves drop off, then a new set of leaves appear. I have seen other avocado plants that look bushy. What am I doing wrong? Why does my avocado plant look like a broken umbrella?

A.Answers to this queston: Add Answer
GKH_Susan
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Answered on January 22, 2025

I suspect the soil is not well draining. The soil should be loose and on the sandy side. The top of the pit should be level with the soil, not partially above. Give the plant bright light, but not direct sun. Increase the humidity by placing the pot on a pebble tray. The pot should sit on top of the pebbles and not able to absorb the water.

Also, make sure you are not overwatering. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. This article should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/avocado/indoor-avocado-plant-care.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/what-is-a-pebble-tray.htm

Was this answer useful?
00

Log in or sign up to help answer this question.

Did you find this helpful? Share it with your friends!

You must be logged into your account to answer a question.

If you don't have an account sign up for an account now.

Looking for more?
here are more questions about...
Avocado Trees
Join Us - Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips!

Do you know a lot about gardening?
Become a GKH Gardening Expert

OK