How do I propagate my Aloe Vera houseplant?

Aloe Vera is a versatile houseplant that you would want to have as many of as possible. In addition to purifying the air, the sap also has healing properties, which makes Aloe Vera even more attractive. There are two ways to propagate Aloe Vera: with or without roots. Regardless of the method you choose, there are four essential elements that your plant always needs to grow well: warmth, sunlight, water and, of course, sufficient attention.

Propagating Aloe Vera without roots

If you want to propagate aloe vera without roots, you can do so using a side shoot. This is a new shoot that grows on the side of the mother plant, usually close to the bottom. Because this cutting has no roots, it is actually an extension of the larger plant, and the roots of the cutting will eventually become the same roots as those of the mother plant.

Propagating aloe vera with roots

When you propagate an aloe vera with roots, we refer to this as a root cutting. These are cuttings that grow directly from the soil but are not attached to the mother plant. The roots of the mother plant spread through the pot, and sometimes a root emerges above the soil. This root will naturally form a new aloe vera plant, which you can separate and repot as an independent cutting.

How do you propagate an aloe vera houseplant?

There is a difference between the two types of cuttings: with or without roots. However, the propagation method remains the same for both types. Start by choosing the right cutting: a root cutting or a side shoot. It is important to take the cutting as low as possible from the plant, but without damaging the roots. You can push the cutting slightly into the potting soil, as long as you stay above the roots. Gently twist the cutting so that it comes loose, but be careful not to twist it too hard. A sudden movement can break the roots. Also, make sure you pull the cutting straight up, not at an angle, so that it does not break at a weak point and can continue to grow. And voilà, you have your own Aloe Vera cutting!

Caring for the Aloe Vera cutting

After you have detached the cutting, it is essential to take good care of it. An important first step is choosing the right pot. Choose a pot that is about 6 cm in diameter, preferably transparent. This allows you to see how the roots are developing and easily assess how moist the soil is. Carefully place the cutting in the soil, then water it a little, but allow the soil to dry out thoroughly between waterings. By allowing the cutting to dry out between waterings, you stimulate root growth and can move the cutting to a larger pot more quickly.

Temperature is also very important for the growth of your cutting. Aloe vera likes warmth, so don't place it in a spot that is too cold. Make sure the cutting gets as much sunlight as possible, preferably by placing it on a windowsill or close to a window.

When it comes to watering, you don't need to do much. Aloe vera is used to dry, desert-like conditions and therefore does not need much water. Too much water can even be harmful to the cutting.