The frost came unexpectedly overnight and your agave was still outside? Many types of agave are not hardy and cannot tolerate frost. If the plant is damaged by low temperatures, it must be cared for properly.
How can I save a frozen agave?
If an agave has frozen, it should be immediately moved to a frost-free winter quarter with temperatures between 10 and 15 °C. Allow frozen areas to dry, then water carefully and remove affected parts as soon as the agave has recovered.
Why do agaves freeze to death in Germany?
As succulents,Agaves require a mild, frost-free climate They come from warm and dry areas in America. The plants are adapted to this climate. That's why they can't tolerate our damp and cold weather in autumn and winter. Agaves store a lot of water in their leaves. If temperatures fall below 0 °C, the water in the leaves also freezes. Because water expands when it freezes, the cell walls burst and the cells die. That's why most agaves shouldn't overwinter outside.
How do I know if my agave is frozen?
Frozen areas on the agave feelmusty at first This is due to the destroyed cell walls, which no longer provide stability. Later the areas turn brown, shrivel and die. First, get an overview of how badly the plant is damaged. Damage to the leaves can often be repaired with proper care. If the agave trunk is affected, rescue is difficult.
How do I treat a frostbitten agave?
You shouldimmediately move a frozen agave to winter quarters. A bright room with temperatures between 10 and 15 °C is ideal. Do not water the agave and allow the frostbitten areas to dry. If the agave is well dried, scab forms around the frostbitten areas. Thanks to this, the plant can be watered carefully. The soil must always dry completely before the next watering.
Can I put the frozen agave out again afterwards?
An agave with frost damage mustnot be exposed to further frost. Leave the plant in winter quarters at least until after the Ice Saints. After that, night frosts are very rare in most regions of Germany. Before the plant moves back to its summer location, the frozen ones are removed. When the temperatures are mild, the plants recover and sprout again.
Tip
Hardy Agaves
If you don't have a suitable winter quarters for your agave, you can use hardy agaves. American species such as Agave americana can tolerate at least light frost. Mountain agaves such as Agave havardiana and Agave utahensis can survive temperatures down to -20 °C.
