Aloe arborescens

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist well-drained compost which has been mixed with sand. Cover lightly with vermiculite. Propagate 20-25°C. Do not exclude light as this aids germination. Water from the base only. Germination takes 3-4 weeks. Once germinated remove propagation cover to prevent damping off. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions.

Growing

Grow under glass in the UK, a conservatory or greenhouse is ideal. Prefers a loam-based potting compost with additional perlite or sand added for improved drainage. Re-pot into wide shallow pots as required and grow on in cool, light conditions. Allow to dry out between watering. Do not water between September and March. This plant can grow very large in its native habitat. When container grown its size will be limited by the size of the container. Occasionally flowers will be produced. A liquid feed may be offered during the growing season if desired.

Cultivation

Propagate by seeds or offsets. Remove offsets produced at the base of the plant and simply replant.