As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, spring signals a fresh start for many plants- including Agaves! This season is the best time to repot and propagate your Agave plants to ensure their continued health and growth. If you’ve noticed that your Agave has outgrown its pot or is producing baby plants (also known as offsets or pups), now is the time to give it the space it needs. Here’s everything you need to know about repotting and propagating Agaves successfully.

Signs Your Agave Needs Repotting

Agaves are slow growers, but they still eventually need more room to thrive. Some clear signs that your plant is ready for a bigger pot include:

• The roots are visibly emerging from the drainage holes.

• The pot dries out too quickly after watering.

• The plant appears top-heavy or unsteady.

• The mother plant has produced multiple offsets that crowd the pot.

If any of these apply to your Agave, it’s time to repot!

Choosing the Right Pot & Soil for Agaves

Agaves require a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. The best mix consists of:

• 50% mineral components (pumice, perlite, coarse sand, or grit)

• 50% organic components (cactus soil, bark, or compost in small amounts)

Use a clay or terracotta pot with drainage holes, as these materials allow the soil to breathe and excess moisture to escape.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repotting Your Agave

1. Gently remove the plant from its current pot by loosening the soil around the edges.

2. Inspect the roots for any signs of rot. Trim any black, mushy roots with sterile scissors.

3. Separate any offsets (pups) if you wish to propagate new plants (see below).

4. Place the Agave in its new pot with fresh, well-draining soil.

5. Allow the plant to settle without watering for a few days to let any root damage heal.

6. After about a week, begin watering sparingly to avoid overwatering.

Separating & Propagating Agave Offsets

If your Agave has produced offsets, you can easily propagate them into new plants:

• Carefully remove the pup by cutting it from the mother plant with a clean, sharp knife.

• Let the cut end dry for a few days to prevent rot.

• Pot the offset in well-draining soil, just like the mother plant.

• Place it in a warm, sunny location but avoid direct afternoon sun until it establishes roots.

• Water lightly and monitor growth.

Ideal Location for Agaves

Agaves thrive in full sun, so place them in the brightest spot available. If growing indoors, a south-facing window is ideal. Outdoor Agaves should be in a warm, dry spot with protection from excessive winter moisture.

Final Tips for Happy, Healthy Agaves

• Avoid overwatering—Agaves store water in their thick leaves and prefer to dry out between waterings.

• Use a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot.

• Repot only every 2-3 years, or when the plant shows signs of needing more space.

• Enjoy the process! Repotting and propagating Agaves is a rewarding way to expand your plant collection and ensure their long-term health.

Happy Spring & Happy Growing from TOMs FLOWer CLUB!