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Want more Aloe Vera plants?
You can grow them from just a leaf!
It’s easier than you think. Here are 7 simple tactics to help you grow your own Aloe Vera from a leaf.
Ready to get started?
Let’s jump in!
Pick the Right Leaf
Choosing the right leaf is super important. Grab a healthy, green leaf from your Aloe Vera plant.
Make sure it’s one of the bigger ones; they are more likely to root successfully. Try to snip it off as close to the base as possible.
A sharp knife or garden shears will do the trick. Don’t worry if the cut isn’t perfect!
Your Aloe will bounce back.
Let It Heal
Patience is key here. You’ve got to let the cut end of your Aloe leaf dry out and heal.
Just leave it in a warm, dry spot for about 3 to 5 days. This step is crucial to prevent rot when you eventually plant it.
You’ll know it’s ready when the end looks all dried out and calloused.
Prepare the Soil
Aloe Vera loves sandy, well-draining soil. Grab yourself a pot with drainage holes (this is a must!).
Mix some potting soil with sand or perlite to ensure your plant doesn’t sit in water. Fill the pot almost to the top, leaving a little room so you can easily add your leaf.
Plant the Leaf
Time to put that leaf into its new home! Place the leaf cut-side down into the soil, burying it about an inch deep.
Pack the soil around it gently, making sure the leaf stands upright. Don’t bury it too deep, or it might struggle to root.
Water Sparingly
Less is more when it comes to watering Aloe Vera. After planting, give it a light watering.
Then, hold off on watering again until you see new growth, which can take a few weeks. Over-watering is one of the main reasons Aloe Vera leaves rot, so resist the urge to pour too much water on your new plant.
Provide the Right Light
Aloe Vera needs plenty of bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Place your potted leaf in a sunny window that gets a bit of indirect light.
Direct sunlight all day can be a bit too harsh, especially for a newly planted leaf. Keep an eye on it to avoid sunburn!
Watch for New Growth
New growth is a sign that your Aloe Vera is setting down roots and getting comfy. It might take a month or even longer, so don’t worry if it feels slow-going.
Once you see new leaves sprouting, you’re all set! Keep up with the occasional watering and enjoy your thriving Aloe Vera plant.