How to Plant Agaves

Agaves grow well in dry soils and are hence commonly mistaken for cacti. They are actually succulents and belong to the lily family. The different varieties of Agaves include the decorative A. victoria reginae, Octopus Agaves and the blue agave that are grown for food and medicinal purposes. Blue agaves have a lifespan of 8 to 14 years. These fiercely toothed leafy succulents bloom only once in their lifetime. After blooming, which spans for almost 1 full year, the bloom fades off and the plant slowly perishes. New plants are grown in the form of side shoots that are called "pups." Some agaves even have plantlets coming out of the blooms that fall to the ground and start growing. They can be grown in pots and containers as well as on the ground.

Potted agaves nursery plant Soil Sand Gravel Organic fertilizer Water Sharp knife or scissors

Instructions

- 1
  Dig a hole 10 inches deep and 10 inches wide. Prepare soil mixture for planting the agaves by mixing equal parts of sand, gravel and soil. Mix thoroughly and add about a handful of Planter's II, a natural trace mineral fertilizer, and any organic fertilizer. Mix the ingredients thoroughly with the soil. Replace the soil into the planting hole.
- 2
  Gently squeeze the plant out of the pot, tapping all the sides and pushing from below. Slowly remove the plant from the pot. Prepare the roots for planting by untangling the roots with gentle fingers and removing the soil sticking to the root balls. Spread the long roots in a line and cut off up to 1 inch with a sharp knife at an equal level. Also, trim off any broken roots.
- 3
  Make a shallow hole with your hands in the hole you've dug. Place the plant in the hole so that the base of the plant should rest evenly with the rest of the soil. Spread out the roots evenly and cover with the surrounding soil until the roots are covered completely. Gently firm the soil. Do not pack it too tightly.
- 4
  Create a ridge of soil at least 2 inches away from the plant so that water is held within the planted area. Cover with 1/2 to 1 inch thick of small gravel around the base of the agaves to protect it from soggy soil. Do not pour water immediately after planting. Leave it alone for a day or 2 for the roots to take hold. Sprinkle water after 2 days ensuring that the plant area and its surrounding area are well soaked with water.
- 5
  You can also add root stimulators after 4 to 5 days, along with the watering. Mix the solution in the water and spread it around the planted area.

How to Grow Dragon's Head Bamboo

Care of Pampas Grass

Landscaping Plants