How to Care for a Century Plant

The century plant is a member of the agave family native to Central America, Africa, Europe and Australia. The plant is commonly grown for its evergreen ornamental foliage. It can grow up to 10 feet in height and 13 feet in diameter. The name "century plant" comes from a myth that the plant only blooms once every 100 years. This is false, however, as the plant can bloom after 5 to 25 years of growth under the proper conditions.

Organic compost

Garden spade

Fertilizer

Plant during late spring in a location that receives direct sunlight throughout most of the day and has well-drained soil. Spread 2 inches of organic compost over the planting site and use a garden spade to incorporate it into the soil to increase fertility.

Create a small slope in the soil leading away from the plant to force excess water to drain away and prevent possible root rot. Begin the slope at the base of the century plant and extend it 12 inches in the desired direction.

Water a century plant three to five times per week during the first two months of growth. Reduce the frequency to twice per week thereafter to prevent the soil from becoming saturated. Do not water during winter or root rot may occur.

Feed the century plant once per year in January, using a balanced 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer. Water the plant both before and after applying the fertilizer to prevent nitrogen burn. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for proper dosage.

Prune the century plant once per year in early spring to keep the plant healthy and aesthetically pleasing. Remove any dead or damaged leaves from their point of origin to minimize damage and prevent possible disease.

Do not plant the century in the ground in regions where winter temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant in a large container that can easily be transferred indoors when temperatures drop.

Wear gloves when handling century plants to prevent possible injury. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.