Aloe Plant Propagation Techniques
As a star variety among succulents, aloe is deeply favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique ornamental value and practicality. Division propagation, as the most common method for aloe, not only inherits the superior traits of the mother plant but also rapidly cultivate new ones. This article will systematically explain the timing and complete process of division through a combination of text and images.
Core Steps of Aloe Division Propagation
Selection of Mother Plant and Treatment of Side芽
Select a robust mother plant that has been growing for over 2 years and observe the development of the basal side芽. High-quality division materials should have 3-5 expanded leaves and an independent root system at the base. First, use a gardening spade to loosen the potting soil, then remove the entire plant and gently shake off the attached soil clumps.
Techniques for Scientifically Separating Side芽
Hold the connection between the side芽 and the mother plant with the thumb and index finger, and slowly pull it apart at a 45-degree angle. Specifically retain 1-2 cm of aerial roots at the base of the side芽. After separation, place it in a well-ventilated area to dry for 12 hours, allowing a protective film to form over the cut before transplanting.
Substrate Preparation and Transplanting Standards
Use a mixed substrate of peat soil: perlite: river sand in a ratio of 3:1:1, which needs to be disinfected at high temperatures before use. Choose a breathable ceramic pot with a diameter of 10-15 cm, and place a 2 cm thick layer of ceramic stones at the bottom as a drainage layer. When transplanting, ensure the roots are spread out, cover the soil to the original growth line, and after pressing down, slowly water around the edge of the pot.
Scientific Timing for Division
The best time for division is from March to April in spring, when the average daily temperature is stable at 18-25°C, and the day-night temperature difference is small. In southern regions, it can be advanced to late February, while in the north, it should be postponed to mid-April. Avoid operating during the high summer temperatures (＞30°C) and low winter temperatures (＜10°C) to prevent wound infection or seedling failure.
Post-Division Care Tips
Keep the plant in a diffused light environment for the first 3 days after transplanting, maintaining the substrate slightly moist. Gradually increase light exposure after new leaves appear, and apply a diluted 1000-fold succulent-specific fertilizer every two weeks. Pay attention to the soil moisture cycle, usually watering once every 7-10 days, and appropriately shorten to every 5-7 days in summer.
By precisely mastering the timing of division and standardizing operations, the survival rate can be increased to over 95%. Division propagation not only effectively controls the mother plant's shape but also quickly obtains new plants with stable genetic traits. It is recommended to combine this operation with the annual spring potting change to achieve sustainable cultivation of aloe clusters.