Transplanting Large Century Plants (Agave) with a Front-End Loader

Moving Mature Agaves on a Tractor

Plants are clumped, sharp-spined, on rocky clay. Plan to scoop with loader, transport, plant on sandy clay mounds, oriented N/S.

Root System

Agaves have shallow, spreading roots like palms. Dig at least 18 inches deep to capture root mass.

Procedure

1. Mark north side of each plant.
2. Scoop with loader, keeping root ball intact.
3. Transport, orient N/S.
4. Backfill, avoid overwatering initially.
5. Wait a few weeks before watering if weather not hot.

Watch for spines! Heavy leather gloves and eye protection essential.