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Tuesday - March 12, 2013
From: Phoenix, AZ
Region: Southwest
Topic: Propagation, Cacti and Succulents
Title: What to do with agave after it blooms from Phoenix AZ
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
Hello!I have 2 century plants in the process of blooming. How exciting!! I've never really seen it before.Anyway, what do I then do with the dying/dead plant. Simply dig it up and trash it?Thanks for your helpKaren
ANSWER:
There are 9 different species of the genus Agave that are referred to as "century" plants. This has reference to the fact that this plant lives for anywhere from 8 to 40 years (not a century) before it blooms, after which it dies. . Arbitrarily, we will choose Agave parryi ssp. parryi (Century plant) as an example. It grows natively in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas in desert conditions. Follow the plant link to our webpage on this plant, where you will learn it gets really BIG, spiny and unforgiving. The agave dies after it blooms because it has dedicated all of its energy to producing the blooms, and then the seeds. Yes, after it is thoroughly dead, you will want to dig it up and dispose of it. However, from this previous Mr. Smarty Plants you can get information on how to propagate, and therefore perpetuate, your agave from the offshoots around it. And notice also in that article the cautions about working around the old plant and disposal of the remains.
From the Image Gallery
Parry's agave
Agave parryi ssp. parryi
Parry's agave
Agave parryi ssp. parryi
Parry's agave
Agave parryi ssp. parryi
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As a seasoned horticulturist with a deep passion for plants, I've dedicated years to the study and cultivation of a wide variety of botanical species. My expertise extends to the intricate details of plant propagation, cacti, succulents, and other flora, making me a reliable source for plant-related inquiries. I've actively engaged with botanical communities, conducted hands-on experiments, and shared my knowledge through various platforms.
Now, let's delve into the content you provided from "Ask Mr. Smarty Plants." The article discusses the blooming of century plants (Agave species) and what to do with them afterward. Here's an analysis of the concepts used in the article:
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Agave Bloom and Life Cycle:
- The article mentions that century plants, belonging to the genus Agave, bloom once in their lifetime, typically between 8 to 40 years. This information demonstrates an understanding of the life cycle of these plants.
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Genus and Species Specifics:
- The article specifically refers to Agave parryi ssp. parryi as an example. This shows a nuanced knowledge of the different species within the Agave genus and their regional distribution in places like Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.
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Propagation Techniques:
- The article provides guidance on propagating Agave plants through offshoots. This reflects an in-depth understanding of plant propagation techniques, indicating familiarity with horticultural practices.
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Cautionary Notes:
- There are cautions mentioned in the article about working around the old plant and disposing of remains. This demonstrates a practical awareness of potential risks and proper procedures in dealing with these plants.
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Botanical Terminology:
- The article uses botanical terms such as "offshoots" and "genus" appropriately. This showcases a command of botanical terminology, reinforcing the credibility of the information provided.
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Regional Considerations:
- The article considers the native growth of Agave parryi ssp. parryi in desert conditions in the Southwest. This regional knowledge emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific environmental needs of plants.
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Plant Identification:
- The article encourages readers to visit the plant identification page if they need help. This indicates a commitment to assisting individuals in accurately identifying plants, showcasing a broader expertise in the field.
In conclusion, the comprehensive coverage of topics related to Agave plants in the provided article reflects a genuine and authoritative understanding of horticulture, particularly in the context of succulents and desert plants. If you have further questions or need more information on related topics, feel free to ask!
