Aloe vera is known for its strong and sprawling growth. The shape and growth can be influenced by pruning measures carried out in a timely manner. In addition, the consistent removal of the side shoots ensures better stability in the pot.
How to cut aloe vera plants?
Cut Aloe Vera correctly: Remove side shoots regularly and harvest outer leaves by cutting them close to the trunk with a sharp knife. Keep wounds as small as possible. Use harvested leaves for gel production and cuttings for propagation.
Aloe vera is cultivated outdoors in regions with tropical and subtropical climates. The plants for commercial cultivation grow on huge plantations and are harvested after three to four years to produce gel. They can reach an impressive size in both width and height. Such unbridled growth is not necessarily desirable for a room aloe, simply for reasons of space.
Remove side shoots regularly
Every sexually mature aloe vera plant forms offshoots over time. These either grow directly on the trunk of the mother plant or are anchored in the substrate with their own roots from the outset. These side shoots are used to propagate the aloe vera or - if the need for additional plants is met - they are removed so that the mother plant does not become excessively wide.
Cut outer leaves
Aloe vera constantly rejuvenates itself by continually sprouting new leaves from its center. The outer leaves die off every now and then. You can give the renewal process a little boost if you harvest the outer leaves regularly. The resulting gel can be used for skin care or eaten. You can also use it to obtain cuttings for propagation:
- score the leaf with a sharp knife as close to the ground as possible,
- carefully bend or cut off the sheet,
- keep the wound as small as possible,
- divide the sheet into pieces,
- plant the leaf pieces after they have dried.
Tip
If the outer leaves of your aloe plant are yellowing, it is not a concern on the older plants as they tend to form a trunk over the years. However, younger plants may have been watered too much.
