GROWING AGAVE FROM SEED

Agave seed can be sown at any time of year although February to July will fit well with the Agave growing season in northern Europe. Using modular trays, fill with a good quality compost such as John Innes 'Seed and Cutting', although it is worth adding horticultural grade grit-sand or perlite to improve the drainage further. Water the compost and then press one seed into the surface of each module. Do not cover the seed with compost as it will require the presence of light to help initiate germination. However a thin layer of vermiculite will be fine.

Agave seedlings

Place the tray inside a heated propagator at a temperature of between 20-25 degrees Celsius and place on a bright position out of direct sun. Alternatively, seal the tray inside a clear polythene bag and place on the windowsill of a warm room, again, keep out of direct sunlight. Once the seedlings begin to emerge, remove from the polythene bag or propagator once the seedlings begin to emerge (but still keep in warm bright conditions) and apply a light sprinkling of coarse gravel to help support the seedlings and reduce the incidence of damping off.

Always allow the compost to dry out before watering and only then to just keep the soil moist. Do not overwater and do not allow the root system to become waterlogged. Once the seedlings have established in their module, carefully pop them out and pot them on into 3 inch pots containing a good quality, free-draining compost. Pot on as necessary and water carefully until established.

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