Agaves come from dry and warm regions of America. Despite the low rainfall, they survive in steppes. These plants have a special mechanism that protects against evaporation.
How does the agave protect itself from drought?
Agaves protect themselves from drought by using their narrow, sword-like leaves with small surfaces and thorns to minimize evaporation. They also close the stomata on the underside in dry and hot weather to store water inside the plant.
How can agaves survive in drought?
Agaves are perfectly adapted to the dry seasonbecause of their leaf shape. They are succulents and are characterized by narrow, sword-like leaves with small surfaces and thorns. This means less water can evaporate. Nevertheless, agaves also need openings through which water escapes and carbon dioxide is absorbed for photosynthesis. When it is dry and hot, the plants close the stomata on the underside. This saves water inside the plant.
What does this mean for agave care?
Agaveshardly need water because they release less moisture into the environment. Too much water when caring for plants quickly leads to rot and fungal infestation. The ideal location for an agave is a sunny spot that is protected from rain. Do not place an agave in a planter to prevent moisture from collecting there.
Tip
Avoid waterlogging
Agaves do not tolerate waterlogging. The pot must definitely have a drainage hole for water. With the right, well-drained substrate such as cactus soil (€12.00 on Amazon), you can also avoid waterlogging. A bottom layer of expanded clay or small pebbles in the pot is ideal.
