How Often Do I Water an Agave Plant?

Agave plants can survive long droughts.

Agave plants, members of the Agavaceae family, originally come from warm, dry area. They are also known as century plants, and understanding their watering requirements is an important part of their care.

Watering

Agave plants should be watered thoroughly, but they should only when their growing medium feels fully dry. Avoid giving them water with flouride, as it may burn their tips.

Medium

A medium with good drainage facilitates effective watering. Choose a succulent or cactus soil mix that lets the water drain well. Mix sand or coarse material in with the medium to give the plant some weight and to promote drainage.

Cultivation

Agave plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Depending on the variety, it may be better to grow these plants in containers, where good drainage and irrigation control are assured.

References

• Texas A&M University: Agavaceae or Agave Family
• University of Florida: Agave and Yucca: Tough Plants for Tough Times