Ask The Expert: I have an a immature avocado tree that I started from seed, first time. We are several months in and it stands 22" from seed. Several leaves are browning and curling at the tips and inward along the sides. I water it regularly and use Miracle Gro every now and then, it was originally potted using Miracle Gro soil. Any ideas? Steven Fricke __________________________________________ Plant Expert Reply: Fricke, Sorry for the delay in my reply to your plant question. I think your plant has a case of Phytophthora root rot caused by the heavy Miracle Gro soil. Avocados need a soil that drains well and can not be buried too deep. If exposed to soggy soil or if planted too deep, a rotting can occur which will cause the leaves or stems to die. They also require a 6 to 6.5 ph. Check your roots and drainage. Then send me some more information on what you are using on the plant besides water. We should be able to figure this out and turn the issue [...]