Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000090
11/12/99
Aloe--Medicine Plant
Type: House plant
Comments: Several aloes are used as house plants and most
need full sun and a porous potting mix. The plants
tolerate low humidity and may not grow well in high
humidity, as found in greenhouses. In summer, water as
soon as the soil becomes fairly dry. From September to
March, keep the soil moderately dry. A dilute fertilizer
solution may be used during the summer. Best growth
occurs at temperatures between 55 degrees and 70 degrees.
Chilling may occur below 45 degrees.
Propagation: Propagation is done by detaching and rooting
offshoots. Long stems may be used for cuttings. Exposure
to air for a few hours allows the cuttings to seal over.
A corky skin must form over the cut surface before
insertion in the rooting medium. Make cuttings by
severing the stem just below a joint or node. Water
sparingly until roots form. Seed will germinate in 3 to 4
weeks at temperatures between 68 degrees and 75 degrees.
Seeds and seedlings need a moist, but not constantly wet,
soil.
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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