How to Replant Blue Foxtail Agave

Prepare the new planting site prior to removing the blue foxtail agave from the soil, to prevent root dehydration. Dig a 12-inch-deep and 24-inch-wide hole in a warm, sunny spot with well-draining soil. Toss in handfuls of organic compost into the planting hole.

Tilt the agave plant to its side and tap its base several times to loosen the potted plant and the soil. Alternatively, snip off the bulbils, the tiny plants that grow from the flower stalk of the foxtail agave with sharp, sterilized scissors. Plant these in different parts of your garden or in pots so they root and grow into individual plants.

Loosen the soil around the foxtail agave using a shovel. Form a large circle around the base of the agave plant to ensure you include the roots in the transfer. Succulents, including agaves, feature shallow but extensive root systems.

Insert the tip of the shovel into the soil under the plant to pry it out. Lean on the handle to help lift the agave out of the planting hole, with surrounding soil covering its roots.

Center and lower the plant in the new planting site, planting it at the same depth as its previous planting hole. Add more soil to the hole before planting the agave, if necessary, to raise it to the required height.

Backfill the hole with soil and pres sit with your hands to remove trapped pockets of air. Irrigate the soil around the blue foxtail agave until evenly moist, but not soggy. Afterwards, irrigate the soil every 10 to 14 days.

Spread a 3-inch-thick layer of organic mulch around the base of the blue foxtail agave to help keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing nearby. Choose from natural mulching materials such as pine straw or shredded bark. Replace the mulch around the succulent every spring.