Native Plants
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Ask Mr. Smarty Plants
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
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Tuesday - March 20, 2007
From: texarkana, TX
Region: Southeast
Topic: Cacti and Succulents
Title: Soil for Agave americana
Answered by: Damon Waitt
QUESTION:
Can you give me some information on soil admendments for growing Agave (Century Plant)? I kept it in a pot during the winter and now I am ready to plant it in my bedsANSWER:
Agave americana (American century plant) does well in Sandy, Medium, or Clay Loam or in Rocky Soil. It is best used in mass or as focal point. It benefits from some extra moisture in very dry conditions, but is very tolerant of heat and xeric conditions. Takes light shade better than some other agaves. Protect from teen winter temperatures to avoid damage. Keep mature width of plant in mind when placing in the landscape to avoid sharp leaf tip spines.
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