Planting Agave Around a Boulder: Root Pruning and Site Selection

An agave in a 16" pot encounters a boulder at 9" depth when planting. The pot depth (12") is the correct planting depth—don't dig deeper. Option 1: spread roots around the boulder with ample soil beneath and beside. Option 2: if root-bound, trim 3–4" off the root ball bottom, let cuts seal 2 days, then plant. Either works if roots are loosened and have room to expand.

Follow-up: the plant is root-bound. A sunnier spot (5.5 hrs) vs. less sun (4 hrs) with deeper soil—choose the sunnier spot with the boulder. Agaves love sun. Just ensure roots are fully untangled and spread outward. Root binding prevents establishment regardless of location.