Friday, March 26, 2010

Avocado Flowers...

We are trying a fun and interesting experiment--growing avocado flowers. Now I know that sounds weird, especially living in Alberta where we get VERY cold--far from the tropical climates they like! But nonetheless, I am having a good time seeing the changes each day when I come into work; puts a smile on my face!!

I started with an avocado from the grocery store, used the fruit, cleaned the seed. I didn't take pictures of those steps, but I am sure you get what I mean!


Then you need to insert toothpicks (I have a very crazy, serious adversion to "unfinished" wood, so I have to use plastic toothpicks!). You can't put them in too deep, only about 1/2 an inch. I've read online to use 2 toothpicks, but I've only used 2 and it is seeming to work fine.









Then you need to put the contraption in a cup or jar of water. Don't fully cover the seed with water; instead leave some seed exposed at the top (this one could use a little more)







Now the fun game of waiting begins! You will notice that the seed will begin to get crack and that is a good thing! My first one began to crack almost as soon as 24 hours later. The next picture was taken on March 22nd about a week into the project, you can see the root beginning to "pop out"!
This picture was taken today! I was so suprised to come into my office and see the root externally!
You may notice too, that the pictures are actually of 2 seeds that I am growing. I didn't take beginning pictures of the first seed, as I honestly didn't think it would work! So the blue toothpick seed is the first, the green is the second. I have another avocado at home that now is making me itch to do this with the boys at home! I can't wait to begin it with them, so they can watch this right along with me!!
Be sure to check back for updates and more pictures--I almost hate that the weekend is here--I will be so excited to come into work on Monday and see the new progress!!