Expert: Maureen - 1/2/2012

Question
QUESTION: I have read somewhere that aloe vera plant can be propagated through its leaf cutting,I wanted to know that is it possible?
if yes then what would be the procedure and can you show the picture also?
Thanks
Sheena

ANSWER: Dear Sheena,

Yeas they can, tho I find it easier through offshoots.  Anyway, here's how:

First, select a leaf to remove from the mother plant. The aloe leaf cutting should be at least 3 inches in length. Remove the aloe leaf with a sharp, clean knife or scissors.

The next step for rooting an rooting an aloe vera plant cutting is to allow the cutting to heal over or dry for a week. Place the aloe vera cuttings in a warm, dry place while it dries. This drying process will help keep disease and rot from getting into the aloe vera cuttings.

After the cuttings are dry, the next step for rooting an aloe vera plant is to place the healed over aloe cutting into lightly damp cacti potting soil, cut side down. The aloe vera cuttings should just be placed deep enough in the potting medium to allow them to remain upright on their own. Place the cutting in a warm dry location. Do not water the aloe cutting until the potting soil is completely dry. Remember, this plant is designed to survive in dry, arid locations. Too much water will kill it.

In a few weeks, your aloe plant cutting should be rooted and growing on its own.

Here's a photo. (I hope)

Hope this helps,

Maureen



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for reply I felt very relief from your answere,as I got aloe vera leaf from my friend and want to grow plant from that.How many days it will take to grow root and leaf?Do roots grow in this winter season I placed it in indirect bright light and I mist it daily.

Answer
Dear Sheena,

As winter is it's dormant period it may take longer to root - 2wks to 1 month or so - hard to say.  You are doing the correct thing tho.  You may not see much new groth till summer, however.  Be sure not to over water.  I don't water at all till a leaf is rooted.  Misting every few days is good.  The only thing that will kill it is too much water.

Good luck.

Maureen