How To Plant And Care For The Agave Americana

The Agave Americana, Century Plant or American Aloe is all the same plant. It just goes by different names. No matter which name it is called, the plant is striking wherever it is planted. Originally this plant began in Mexico. It has quickly spread and is now part the landscape of the United States as well as other countries. For example, in parts or Europe this wonderful succulent grows wild.

Locate an area for planting. You should choose somewhere that is at least six feet away from obstructions or walkways. The spikes on your plant will spread out that far. If you are planting more than one, you will want six feet between each. The area should also get at least six full hours of direct sun each day and it should have well drained soil.

Dug a hole twice as big around as your plant. Make it as deep as the pot that the plant is coming out. It should be planted to the same depth. Work some plant food into the soil. This will give your plant a good start by providing it with nutrients. Use a hose or watering can to put some water into the hole. Allow the water to seep into the ground.

Put on some work gloves, a long sleeved shirt and goggles. This may seem unnecessary but once you see how sharp the spikes can be you will understand why it is needed. You have to protect yourself from these sharp spikes, they can be dangerous and you should do what you can to avoid being cut.

Gently remove the plant from the pot. Place it into the hole that you dug. Fill in around it with the dirt that you removed to make more for the plant. Tap the dirt down. Be sure that all of the roots are covered.

Use a hose or a watering can to water. If you are using a hose set it on shower or another gentle setting. Water the plant from overhead. The leaves will trap the water and lead it down toward the roots. Make sure to water thoroughly.

Watering and extra care are important when a plant is newly transplanted. This is traumatic for them. Once it is established, you should cut down on watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out. Make sure that you are not soaking the soil so much that water stays pooled around your plant. This is bad for it. The soil must be well drained.

If you live in a climate where the Agave Americana does not grow well, do not give up. You can still have one, you just have to keep it in a pot. Take the pot inside when the weather is too cold and bring it out when it is warm. Your succulent will still be beautiful. It will just stay smaller. Do not become alarmed if you do not see any flowers. These are notoriously slow to flower. It takes at least ten years before you will see one.

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