Look sharp!
When repotting or transplanting a cactus, protect your hands by wrapping the plant with a collar made of several thicknesses of newspaper. Gardeners often rely on gloves for this task, but the thorns and prickles may ruin the gloves’ exterior. Working around yuccas, agaves and other plants with swordlike leaves can also be hazardous to your health. Remove the lower leaves of yuccas to make transplanting easier—most can withstand substantial pruning at the base. Before moving an agave, you can snip the sharp points from the tips of the leaves without damaging the plant. Don’t forget to wear goggles in addition to a thick, long-sleeved shirt and gloves. While gardening near viciously sharp plants, it can be helpful to hang pieces of surveyor’s tape from the leaves. This will keep these danger zones in your peripheral vision as you work. Specialty gloves prevent injury from the thorns of roses and brambles. Socks with the feet cut out can provide an added layer of protection when worn over the forearms.