How to Remove Agave

Agave is a genus of succulent that encompasses more than 200 varieties. Most varieties are fairly similar and consist of long, thick, sap-filled leaves emanating from the base of the plant. They are native to Mexico but are cultivated as ornamental plants elsewhere. They are hardy with strong roots that can propagate offshoots, known as "pups." For this reason they can be invasive and must be dug out by the roots to completely remove them.

Gloves and protective clothing
Shovel
Glyphosate herbicide
Sponge brush

Instructions

- 1
  Wear gloves and cover as much of your skin as possible in case plant sap gets onto your skin during the removal process. The sap is a severe skin irritant that causes immediate burning and blisters. There are also sharp spines on the leaves.
- 2
  Explore the ground around the agave to locate the roots. A large agave can have a large root system so start a few feet out from the plant to see how far the roots spread.
- 3
  Dig the entire plant and as much of the root ball out of the ground as possible to discourage any more offshoots. Don't dispose of the roots or the leaves in the compost because the roots can send up pups and the spines will stay forever even if the leaves decompose. Send it to the landfill in plastic bags.
- 4
  Slice across any roots left in the ground you haven't been able to remove with a sharp knife and apply a glyphosate herbicide with a sponge brush within 5 minutes of making the cut. If any roots are left in the ground alive they can eventually send up new agave pups. Don't spray and try not to get a lot of herbicide in your soil or you might kill whatever you plant in that spot next.
- 5
  Fill the hole with new soil to prepare the area for new plantings.

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