All About Agave nickelsiae (King of the Agaves)

Hello and welcome to Brainy Gardener! Today it is all about how to grow and care for the king of the agaves. The king of the agaves, Agave nickelsiae, is an evergreen succulent of breathtaking beauty; native to northwestern Mexico. It has thick green leaves with white or cream stripes on them. The stripes crisscross and spread in longitudinal lines along the length of each leaf. The leaves are topped with a stout, black spine that contrasts nicely with the white and green coloration of the leaves.
*********************
RESOURCES & LINKS:
*********************
All About Agave nickelsiae (King of the Agaves)
brainygardener.com/agave-nick...
*********************
Video Timestamps
*********************
0:00 - Introduction
1:09- Light and Location
1:41 - Watering
2:17- Temperature
2:47 - Humidity
2:58 - Fertilization
3:25 - Propagation
4:31 - Potting and Repotting
5:37 - Toxicity and Common Pests
6:44 - Common Problems
*********************
Summary
The king of the agaves, Agave nickelsiae, is an evergreen succulent of breathtaking beauty; native to northwestern Mexico. It has a very distinctive appearance that makes it stand out among other types of succulents. It makes an excellent addition to any space because it can grow in many different environments and doesn’t require much attention once established.
1. Light and Location
King of the Agaves prefers full sun to light shade. In most cases, it prefers direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day, but in particular harsh sunlight, some shade is appreciated. In sunny climates, consider placing your Agave in a shadier spot.
2. Watering
Agave nickelsiae is drought-tolerant, but it also appreciates regular watering. In particular, the plant needs more water during its spring growth spurt. During this time, allow the soil to become dry to about 1 inch below the surface before watering again. But don’t forget to ensure the water drains out quickly after watering.
3. Temperature
King of the Agaves needs average temperatures around 50 degrees Fahrenheit for its optimal growth. It is incredibly winter hardy, as it can withstand temperatures as low as zero degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, it can be grown outdoors in USDA zone 7 and above.
4. Humidity
Average room humidity is fine, but don’t let it drop below 30 percent. Most homes have this level of moisture naturally.
5. Fertilization
Agave nickelsiae is a light feeder, so fertilize it once every six months with a balanced fertilizer. Use half the recommended strength for indoor plants. The plant will also benefit from slow-release organic pellets or compost when available.
6. Propagation
King of the Agaves can be propagated by offsets. Propagation from offsets is the fastest and most reliable method of production. These Agave plants produce offshoots from the base of the mother plants that can be easily removed to begin the process of production of a new plant. Start the process by making sure that your parent plant is well-established and healthy. Once you have chosen an offset to propagate, cut it off from the parent plant. A removed shoot may be planted immediately into a container if it has roots and no wound at the base.
7. Potting and Repotting
King of the Agaves does not need to be repotted often, but you can repot it every two years if it becomes rootbound and looks poor. Spring is the right time to repot as the plant is just entering the growth phase. Choose a large, deep pot that has drainage holes in the bottom. A clay pot is best because it holds moisture well and allows for good drainage. The best soil for Agave is loose, well-draining, and slightly acidic.
8. Toxicity and Common Pests
King of the Agaves is mildly toxic to humans and animals. This plant sap can irritate the skin and cause rashes. It’s best to wear gloves when working around your plant and wash your hands after handling it. These plants are susceptible to Agave snout weevil, Scale Insects and Slugs and Snails.
9. Common Problems
Root rot, sunburn and frost burn are the most common problems of Agave nickelsiae.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks for watching (and reading!). If you've found this video to be useful, please give it a thumbs up or leave a comment below.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
► Subscribe to Brainy Gardener: bit.ly/3EsWsiE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
► Our Website: brainygardener.com
Get tips, ideas and inspiration to help make your home greener