How to propagate aloes

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How to propagate aloes

BBC Gardeners' World Magazine

Published: Wednesday, 16 October 2019 at 10:04 am

We show you how to propagate new aloe plants by separating offsets.

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Aloes, such as Aloe vera, can be propagated by leaf cuttings or seed sown in a heated propagator, but the most reliable way is by separating the young offsets – also known as 'pups'.

These are essentially baby plants that share part of the parent plant's root system and occur naturally at its base. Wait until these offsets are roughly one fifth of the size of the parent plant, then separate and pot them on.

You can also use this method to propagate other plants that produce offsets, including agaves, gasterias and haworthias – all of which make great gifts.

Follow the steps in this quick guide to propagate your aloes.

You Will Need

Aloe plant with offsets
Sharp knife
Gritty, well-drained compost

Step 1

Removing the aloe from the container

Either knock the whole plant out of the pot or use a knife to gently cut away the offsets from around the edge of the compost.

Step 2

Separating out the individual plants

Separate each offset. Use a knife to trim the base, leaving the roots if they are intact, or the hardened stub if there aren't any.

Step 3

Potting up the new aloes

For those without roots, allow the cut end to dry and callus for a couple of days before potting into a gritty, well-drained compost.

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