How to prune agave montana

Spring through summer; dead material any time. In full protective gear (gloves, long sleeves, eye protection), use a pruning saw or heavy loppers to cut dead outer leaves flush at the trunk. Work carefully to avoid contact with the sharp terminal spines on adjacent healthy leaves.

As needed — very infrequent. Agave montana (Mountain Agave) is a large, cold-hardy rosette that needs only occasional removal of dead outer leaves. Wear heavy leather gloves and eye protection — the stiff terminal spines are long and dangerous. Do not prune for cosmetic reasons; the symmetrical rosette is self-forming. Remove the monocarpic flower stalk once the plant has died after blooming.

In full protective gear (gloves, long sleeves, eye protection), use a pruning saw or heavy loppers to cut dead outer leaves flush at the trunk. Work carefully to avoid contact with the sharp terminal spines on adjacent healthy leaves.