How to Start Aloe Vera Plants

Overview

Aloe vera is known by many names including burn plant, Barbados aloe, medicinal aloe and unguentine cactus, according to Floridata. Aloe vera is native in the Mediterranean and Africa, can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11 outside and is probably best known for its medicinal purposes. Aloe vera plants make excellent potted plants for any location. You can start or propagate aloe vera plants easily from the "babies," "offsets" or "pups" produced from other aloe plants.

Step 1

Remove the pups from an aloe vera plant once the plant size reaches at least 2 inches tall. Gently pull the pups from the soil, and allow them to dry for a day or two.

Step 2

Use containers or pots with drainage holes to grow aloe vera plants. Cover the drainage holes with a piece of mesh or coffee filter. Fill containers with special cacti soil mix.

Step 3

Use your finger or spoon to make a hole an inch or two deep in the soil. Place the aloe vera pup in the hole.

Step 4

Push softly on the soil to firm it around the roots and base of the new aloe plant. Water the newly planted aloe vera enough to moisten the soil.

Step 5

Continue to water only as needed. Allow the soil to dry completely and then soak with water. Water less during the winter months.