How to Trim Agave

Agave plants thrive well in arid climates or indoors with minimal care. The beneficial plant is attractive; it provides valuable sweet sap commonly used as a sugar substitute. Trim agave to remove dangerous spines or diseased leaves. It can also be trimmed to maintain the plant’s shape or curb overgrowth.

Safety goggles
Heavy-duty work gloves
Work suit
Lopping shears or curved pruning saw
Garden clippers
Rolled-up newspaper or wooden rod

Instructions

- 1
  Put on protective goggles, gloves and a heavy work suit to prevent injury while working with the agave. Its spines may cause swelling, and its sap may be caustic if it gets in the eyes.
- 2
  Push other leaves out of the way while you work, using a rolled-up newspaper or wooden rod.
- 3
  Trim back any leaves that are too long or diseased, using lopping shears or a curved pruning saw.
- 4
  Trim off lower leaves with lopping shears or a curved pruning saw to prevent overgrowth. Work equally around the plant to maintain the plant’s shape and appearance.
- 5
  Clip off any bothersome spines that are in the way. Do not trim off the leaves unless necessary.

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