How to Trim Agave

Agave spines can pierce the skin and cause swelling.

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.

Things You'll Need

• 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.

References

• Wildflower; Trimming Back Agave Havardiana; June 2008
• Water When Dry; As the Worm Turns, the Agave Goes; June 2007
• San Marcos Growers: Agave Americana – Century Plant