How to Plant Agave Bulbils

Agave bulbils are fast-growing offshoots that form on the flowering stalk (quiote). Planting them correctly will have you field-ready in just a few months. Compared to planting from seed, using Agave bulbils is much easier, and forgiving.

1. Harvest Your Bulbils

Select firm, well-formed bulbils after flowering. Gently twist each one off at its base—avoid tearing the tissue.

2. Prepare Your Shade Area

Use a well-ventilated shade house or place pots under 40–60% filtered light. Young bulbils are sensitive to direct sun and need protection until they root.

3. Plant in Fast-Draining Mix

Fill 4–6″ pots with well-draining soil. Press each bulbil’s base lightly into the soil and give it a slight twist. Do not completely bury the bulbils.

4. Establish a Watering Routine

Since agave are CAM metabolism plants, water your planted bulbils at night. Mist or lightly irrigate every 1–2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings to prevent rot.

5. Monitor Root Development

Keep temperatures between 65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C). After 4–6 weeks, check for roots at the drainage holes. Once roots fill the pot (3–6 months), bulbils are ready to move.

6. Transplant to Field or Larger Containers

Gradually harden off young plants by increasing sun exposure over 7–10 days. Then plant out at your desired spacing (typically 1,000 plants per acre) in well-drained soil.

Key Tips

• Label each batch with date and variety to track performance.
• Scout weekly for pests (mealybugs, scale) and treat early.
• Don't over water. When it comes to watering, less is more.

By following these steps, you’ll harness the speed and resilience of agave bulbils to grow healthy, field-ready plants in just a few months.

Watch the video below for a quick demo of these planting steps: