How to Root an Aloe Plant

Overview

Aloe vera is a member of the lily family, though it does not flower in the same way the more familiar lily species do. Aloe is often grown in small pots in sunny windows, where it adds greenery to the home. Aloe is also grown as a natural burn reliever, as the sap produced from the leaves soothes burns and other small cuts. Rooting your own aloe plant takes only minimal effort to produce a healthy plant.

Step 1

Fill a 4- to 8-inch diameter pot with a well-draining potting mix. Use only pots that have a single drainage hole in the center, as these provide the proper drainage that the aloe requires. Use a cacti mix that has added perlite or vermiculite to ensure proper drainage.

Step 2

Set the aloe cutting or pup 1 to 2 inches into the potting mix. Lightly firm the mix around the base of the leaf or plant to hold it in place. Add more mix if necessary so that the top of the soil sits 1 inch below the rim of the pot.

Step 3

Water the aloe immediately after planting. Provide water just until it begins to drain from the bottom of the pot. Set the aloe vera plant in a sunny windowsill.

Step 4

Water the aloe when the top of the soil begins to feel dry. Avoid overwatering, as aloe cannot tolerate soggy soil.

Step 5

Fertilize the aloe once each spring. Apply a half-strength solution of 10-40-10 analysis fertilizer, and water thoroughly after fertilizing.