The Latest Tutorial on Aloe Vera Planting and Management Techniques and Methods

Aloe vera, also known as oil onion, is native to India and prefers a warm, dry environment with plenty of sunlight. It is not cold-tolerant, and is tolerant of drought and partial shade. It likes fertile, well-drained sandy loam. In winter the temperature should not be lower than 5°C.

Propagation

Division and cuttings are commonly used for propagation. For division, in March—April when repotting, remove the densely growing young plants around the mother plant and pot them up. If the young plants have few roots, they can first be inserted into a sand bed, and potted up after they have rooted. For cuttings, carried out after flowering in May—June, cut off the short top stem 10—15 cm long, let the cut dry in the air, then insert it into a sand bed; generally it can take root about 2 weeks after insertion.

Cultivation

Aloe vera grows vigorously in early spring, so it must be watered thoroughly, and fertilized once every half month. In summer it has a relatively short dormant period, so watering should be controlled and it is better to keep it dry. In particular, newly potted young plants are not tolerant of high temperatures and rain, so they should be slightly shaded. After autumn, move them indoors for care, preferably in a sunny and well-ventilated place, and strictly control watering.

Pests and Diseases

Anthracnose and gray mold sometimes occur and cause damage; they can be sprayed with a 1000-fold dilution of 100% fungicide 401 acetic acid solution. Pests include scale insects and whiteflies, which can be killed by spraying with a 1000-fold dilution of 40% omethoate emulsifiable concentrate.

Uses

Aloe vera is short and varied in form, and its brightly colored, thick, juicy leaves remain green and pleasing to the eye even under the scorching sun. In early spring it can also send out orange-yellow flower stems from the top, which is especially attractive. Potted plants are suitable for decorating halls and rooms and for courtyard arrangements. In the south it can be grown in the open ground, in all kinds of forms, and is quite fascinating.