Growing Blue Weber Agave: Tips and Insights from Stargazer Spirits

Blue Weber Agave, Agave tequilana: Cultivating the Legendary Succulent. When Laurie and Adam Goldberg, co-founders of Stargazer Spirits, decided to experiment with large-scale agave farming in Sonoma County, they knew they were venturing into uncharted territory. But their passion for crafting top-notch agave spirits and their love for the land pushed them forward. Now, their fields of blue Weber agave are growing bigger and stronger every year, providing hope for a new chapter in California’s agricultural history.

The Allure of Blue Weber Agave

The blue Weber agave, scientifically known as Agave tequilana, is a succulent steeped in history and mythology. Its name comes from the Greek word “Agavos,” meaning illustrious, and in Greek mythology, Agave was the goddess of desire. This plant, native to Jalisco, Mexico, was considered sacred by the Aztecs. The first alcoholic beverage made from agave was pulque, a fermented drink dating back to as early as 1000 B.C. When the Spanish settlers arrived, they experimented with distillation, eventually creating tequila and mezcal.

Today, tequila is synonymous with Jalisco, the region where blue Weber agave thrives. But the Goldbergs aim to create exceptional agave spirits right here in California. Their mission is audacious, but their approach is meticulous and thoughtful. As Laurie shared, “We hoped that Agave tequilana would be a low-water, low-maintenance, set-it-and-forget-it plant for us, but in fact, it requires more water than any of our other agaves.” Despite this, the plant still needs about 75% less water than grapevines on a per-acre basis.

GrowingBlue Weber Agave: Conditions and Care

So, what does it take to cultivate blue Weber agave successfully? According to Laurie, this plant loves warm areas with full sun and loose, sandy soil where its roots can spread. However, it’s not as low-maintenance as they initially hoped. It requires 70 to 80 gallons of water per plant during the summer months, although water needs will vary depending on location and soil type.

To understand the best growing practices, the Goldbergs have been conducting various soil amendment and watering experiments. They’ve tried everything from potash and fermented stinging nettle to kelp, biochar, wood ash, sand, rock mulch, and compost. While they haven’t identified a clear winner yet, many of their plants seem to enjoy a nitrogen boost. Laurie notes, “The hope is to have mature agaves in around two to three years and then process and distill on-site, but given our remote location, we may need to distill nearby.”

If you’re considering growing blue Weber agave at home, it’s important to know that this succulent is fast-growing and can reach approximately five feet tall and wide. Its blue-gray leaves are about three to four feet long, armed with a sharp terminal spine and spiky margins. This agave thrives in sandy, well-draining soil at altitudes of 4,500 feet or higher. It won’t tolerate temperatures below 25°F, so if you live in a colder climate, consider growing it in a pot that you can bring indoors during the winter.

Blue Weber Agave Care Cheat Sheet

Practical Insights for Home Gardeners

For those with adventurous green thumbs, blue Weber agave makes an impressive focal plant in water-conscious gardens. Its bold, architectural shape pairs beautifully with other succulents, palm trees, and cacti. The tall flowers it eventually produces in the summer attract hummingbirds, adding life and growing blue Weber Agave to your garden.

However, be mindful of the plant’s needs. It’s deer-resistant but vulnerable to gophers, so consider installing gopher cages before planting. If you want to manage its growth, remember that this agave has a clumping habit—just remove the pups, making sure to leave some roots attached before replanting or gifting them.

The plant’s natural resilience in arid environments means it can handle low humidity levels, making it suitable for indoor growth as well. However, place it in a sunny spot and watch out for pests like mealy bugs and scale. When trimming the leaves, be extremely careful—this plant is as sharp as it is beautiful. Overfeeding can weaken the plant, so stick to a sparse fertilization routine.

The Future of Blue Weber Agave at Stargazer Spirits

The Goldbergs’ journey with blue Weber agave is far from over. They continue to experiment, learn, and adapt to the challenges of growing this legendary succulent in a new environment. Their hope is to have mature agaves ready for harvest in two to three years, with plans to distill on-site. However, their remote location may require them to distill nearby.

Regardless of the challenges, their commitment to creating top-notch agave spirits in California is unwavering. As Laurie puts it, “The bottom line is that this agave is likely to thrive in warm areas in full sun without winter frost.” Their passion and dedication serve as an inspiration for others looking to explore the possibilities of agave farming outside of Mexico.

Conclusion

The blue Weber agave is more than just a plant; it’s a symbol of resilience, history, and passion. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, growing this succulent can be a rewarding experience. With the right care, blue Weber agave can thrive in your garden or home, offering beauty and a connection to a rich cultural heritage. As the Goldbergs continue to push the boundaries of agave farming in California, we can all take a leaf out of their book—embrace the challenges, learn from the process, and enjoy the fruits (or in this case, spirits) of your labor.