The Aloe Vera plant has a rich history dating back 6000 years to ancient Egypt, where it was revered as the “plant of eternity” for its believed beauty, health, and immortality secrets.

Cleopatra herself purportedly used its gel for skincare, highlighting its remarkable properties.

Given its impressive resume, incorporating Aloe Vera into our beauty routines seems like a no-brainer. With just a single leaf, you can propagate this wonder plant in your own home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to harnessing its beauty for yourself.

Necessary Materials:

  • Aloe leaf
  • Knife
  • 96º alcohol
  • Flowerpot
  • Soil
  • Measuring container with water

Step-by-Step Guide to Aloe Reproduction:

  1. Disinfect the knife with 96º alcohol and let it air dry. Ceramic knives work best as they prevent rusting.
  2. Cut a piece of Aloe, preferably from an older plant.
  3. Carefully separate the leaves, taking care not to damage them, and remember to disinfect your hands after handling the plant.
  4. Prepare a pot with moistened soil. Opt for a medium-sized pot to support the plant during subsequent transplants.
  5. Plant each Aloe cutting vertically, burying the white part in the soil, and gently pack the soil to secure the leaf.
  6. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the initial stages when roots are forming.
  7. After about 30 days, roots will begin to sprout from the rings of the buried white portion.
  8. Enjoy your thriving Aloe plant and consider transplanting it to a larger pot when necessary.

Tips for Vigorous and Beautiful Aloe Vera:

Location:

  • Place the plant in a humid area with 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. During hot days, move it to a spot with indirect light to prevent leaf burn.

Irrigation:

  • Water the plant every 15 to 20 days, ensuring the roots are not waterlogged. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger; if dry, it’s time to water. Use stones at the pot’s bottom for proper drainage.

Flowerpot:

  • Choose a pot with a diameter equal to the plant’s height to guide transplanting. A 50 cm deep pot allows Aloe roots to grow freely.

Soil:

  • Opt for soil rich in organic matter with good aeration to support water and nutrient absorption.

Temperature:

  • Maintain temperatures between 17 and 27 ºC for optimal growth. Protect the plant from frost to prevent leaf damage, especially if placed on a balcony.