Agave, a perennial plant known for its ability to thrive in harsh environments, is gaining attention among California farmers due to its low water and nutrient requirements. The plant’s unique adaptation, called crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM), allows it to open its stomata at night to absorb carbon dioxide and conserve water during the day through photosynthesis. This makes agave particularly suitable for arid regions and as an intercrop with other plants since it does not compete heavily for soil moisture or nutrients.
Ofelia, a farmer based in Campo, San Diego County, has been cultivating agave and shared her experience. “I decided to grow agave primarily because of the water situation. Agave is a resilient and intelligent crop. At night, when the environment is cooler, they open their stomata, absorb that moisture, and thus survive. In Campo, we get approximately 10 inches of rain per year, and that’s more than enough for the agave to survive once it’s acclimated and has developed its roots. We usually plant the agaves (without roots) in May. For the first month, we water them once a week. The second month, every 15 days, and the third month, once a month, until the summer is over. In September and October, the rainfall is sufficient to meet their watering needs. The following year, we water them only if we notice they need it.”
She explained that healthy soil benefits agave growth: “Agave is very resilient, but less processed and undisturbed soil is better for the plants. We take great care of the network of microorganisms and their interactions. When the agave develops roots, we apply either chicken or cow manure. We put it around the plant. We also use mulch to help maintain moisture and cool soil temperature since Campo is at a high altitude, approximately 3,000 feet above sea level.”
Wildlife poses challenges on Ofelia’s ranch: “Among our main challenges is the abundant wildlife on my ranch. These include rabbits, squirrels, and a variety of rodents. Each agave needs to be planted with a gopher basket to protect the roots underground. Rabbits, on the other hand, mainly eat the leaves and could easily eat the younger agaves in a single night. Squirrels eat the younger parts of the plant which stops growth. So we not only use underground baskets when they are young but we also put another one to protect above ground… After about two years…the animals remove the youngest ‘pencas’, performing a necessary task for maintenance.”
She noted recent trends in California agriculture: “Agave is an emerging industry in California but it’s essential to recognize that Mother Nature likes diversity…the production of agave has expanded as monoculture…leading to an increase in agrochemicals.” She added that many growers are shifting from vineyards toward agave because it uses much less water—up to 90% less—and fewer chemicals.
The market for agave-based products continues expanding beyond spirits like mezcal—which can be made from various species—to items such as prebiotic inulin; fiber used in pet food; insulation materials; disposable utensils; syrup; tampons; potting soil amendments; livestock silage when combined with nitrogen-fixing trees like mesquite.
Ofelia advised new growers: “For those interested in cultivating agave I advise considering soil health and implementing agroecological practices prioritizing diversity…and being open to planting multiple species.”
She welcomes visitors interested in learning more about cultivation methods on her farm.
Additional resources are available for prospective growers including an online guide developed by experts from UC Organic Agriculture Institute detailing how different species suit varying climates as well as cataloging varieties according to distillate characteristics.
More information will be presented at an upcoming Spanish-language workshop during the 2026 Small Farms Conference.
