Plug Propagation Results

Agave Plug Growth

The first image shows Stuart holding the original greenhouse-grown Agave Yolo plug — a compact, well-rooted start with uniform growth and vigorous root development.

Field Growth After 6.5 Months

The second image highlights the same variety just 6.5 months later, thriving under California field conditions. Plants now exceed 12 inches in height, displaying strong structure, deep roots, and excellent uniformity.

This rapid early growth demonstrates both the adaptability and productivity of the Yolo plug system. Equally important, the use of plugs and a mechanical planter result in approximately $4,500 per acre in cost savings compared to traditional hand-planted pups. Lower input costs, faster planting, and higher survival rates combine to make this approach a highly efficient and scalable solution for California agave production. While far less expensive than using a clone/hijuelo, a grower is adding ~ 1 year to the time to maturity.