Question
QUESTION: I was given a large Aloe Somaliensis to split. Please tell me how to do this correctly and without damaging the plant

ANSWER: Hi Vickie,

Split? Do you have more than one plant in the pot and you want to separate them? Or do you mean that you want to know how to propagate from the single plant that you have?

Will Creed



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have 1 large Aloe Somaliensis that I want to split to make 2 separate plants. Is this possible? Thanks

Answer
"Splitting" usually refers to separating multiple plants growing in the same pot by root division. What you are inquiring about is "propagating" your plant so you can get others. I don't mean to be picky here, but proper terminology can help avoid confusion. So thanks for providing the clarification.

Aloes are usually propagated when they produce offsets or baby plants near the base of the main plant. However, Aloe Somaliensis does not tend to sucker or produce offsets. You can try to propagate it via a leaf cutting. Cut off a healthy, older leaf and let it air dry over night. then insert it upright with the cut end down into a small pot filled with a porous potting mix. Keep the mix slightly damp and be very patient as it will take at least a month for the leaf cutting to strike roots and even longer before it starts to produce new leaves. There is no guarantee this will work, but it is your only options as far as getting new plants.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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