Rooting Aloe Vera from Soft Stem Cutting

Rooting a soft-based aloe cutting from an overwatered plant: possible if ≥5" firm stem remains above rot.

Viability Assessment

• Soft base = rot present
• Need ≥5" firm, green stem above rot
• If entire stem soft = discard

Rescue Procedure

1. Cut 1" above highest soft tissue
2. Inspect cross-section: no brown/black
3. Recut if needed (sterilize)
4. Callus 2-3 weeks (shade, horizontal)
5. Plant 2-3" deep in dry gritty mix
6. No water 2 weeks
7. Then water when dry

Rooting Timeline

• Callus: 2-3 weeks
• Roots: 4-8 weeks
• New growth: 2-3 months

Alternative: Leaf Propagation

• Remove healthy leaves (base intact)
• Callus 1 week
• Lay on dry mix; mist weekly
• Plantlets form at base in 2-3 months

Stem cutting faster but needs firm tissue. Leaf propagation works from any healthy leaf.