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Cactus/blue agave

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Question
I have a blue agave planted outside my home in a rock bed.  Weeds continually pop up.  Can I put weed-killer down around the blue agave without it hurting the plant?
Thanks for your help.

Answer
I wouldn't.  You can read the label and see what the manufacturer says, but agave have some shallow roots.  I would hand weed around it and give it a gravel mulch with peas stone or quartz.  You can layer the gravel 2-3 in. thick which will cut down on weeds dramatically and will highlight the plant as well.  You will see a weed pop up her and there, but they're easy to spot and pull before they spread.

maureen

Cactus

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Maureen

Expertise

I can answer questions regarding the care and propagation of cactus and succulents and would actually group these together as folks often mistake one for the other and often their care is quite different. I also have a cold hardy cactus and succulent garden that has been quite successful. The subject in regard to classification of type is enormous and I wouldn't be able to answer all questions by any means. It is really IMPORTANT TO INCLUDE A PHOTO if at all possible and LET ME KNOW WHERE YOU ARE FROM, especially in terms of climate.

Experience

I have learned by reading books, by trial and error and by consulting with folks with much more knowledge. I have primarily grown C&S for the last 20 years.

Organizations
Cactus and Succulent Society of Massachusetts.

Education/Credentials
No formal training. See experience.

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