Cutting an aloe vera can be necessary for numerous reasons. These include, for example, diseases, pests or harvesting. You can find out how to cut the leaves correctly in our instructions.

In a nutshell

  • Truncation may be necessary for a number of reasons
  • Cutting tool is crucial
  • Cleanliness must be observed
  • Separated leaves can be used in many ways
  • Dry time is important

reasons for a cut

If you want or have to cut the aloe vera, there can be various reasons. These include, among other things:

  • snapped leaves
  • harvest the leaves
  • Damage from disease or parasites
  • propagation
  • reduction in size
  • withered sections

In any case, a few criteria must be observed when cutting your aloe vera.

cleanliness

The tools used must be clean so that no contamination is brought onto the cut surfaces. It is ideal to disinfect the blades before and after use. This generally prevents any pathogens or parasites that may be present from being transferred from one plant to the next.
If no disinfectant is available, other methods can also be used. For example:

  • high percentage of alcohol
  • boiling water
  • detergent

Tip: You should then rinse the blades thoroughly with pure water. In this way, no cleaning agent gets onto the cut surfaces.

sharpness of cutting tools

Sharp knife or scissor blades leave a clean and smooth cut. In addition, they do not squeeze the leaf of the aloe vera when cutting. A knife is ideal. This prevents the jelly-like pulp from being crushed. A pair of sharp pruning shears can also be used. Scissors are a good solution, especially for smaller variants with thinner blades.

Cut aloe vera

Cutting the aloe vera is not difficult if a few factors are taken into account. The following guide shows how to do it.

Utensils needed:

  • Disinfectant or alternative
  • solid work gloves
  • possibly a pair of pliers
  • rag
  • knife or scissors
  • water
A clean, sharp knife is definitely necessary.

If these are ready, continue with these steps:

  1. Cleaning the sheet: With a damp cloth or rag, the sheet should be cleaned first. This removes dust, dirt and germs. Wear protective gloves to avoid injuring yourself on the edges of the leaves.
  2. Cleaning the cutting tool: Immediately before cutting the aloe vera, the blades are disinfected or thoroughly cleaned.
  3. Find the right interface: The cutting should be as close to the ground as possible. This can be difficult with tub culture. Because the outer leaves are most often blended. These can be pressed very tightly to the edge of the pot or tub. It is therefore ideal to make the trimmings - if possible - directly during repotting.
  4. Let dry: The cut surfaces must be able to dry properly. Otherwise, rot can form and damage the plant.

time

If the plant parts on the aloe vera are damaged, they should be cut off as soon as possible. Otherwise it is possible for diseases or parasites to spread. In addition, the optics suffer.
A cut to reduce the size directly during repotting is beneficial. However, with appropriate caution, this can also be carried out at any time. The following criteria are important:

  • good ventilation
  • no direct sunlight
  • dry air
  • warmth

Tip: Even under ideal conditions, the drying of the cut surfaces can take two to three days. During this time, the plant should remain dry and warm.

harvest

Aloe vera can be used both externally and internally. Harvesting the leaves can therefore be a common reason for cutting your aloe vera. However, there is no difference to cutting for other reasons.
It is cut from the outside in, so that the oldest leaves are removed first.

multiply

Even if cuttings or offshoots are cut off to propagate the aloe, the procedure is no different. The interfaces should dry well before placing them in the ground. Otherwise, rot or mold will form but not take root.

frequently asked Questions

What is aloe vera good for?

In case of burns or dry skin, the gel from the leaves can be used as a care product. However, oral intake is also possible in order to have a positive effect on digestion.

Why are gloves required when cutting?

Sturdy work gloves prevent the hard, prickly sides of the leaf from causing injury. It also helps to hold the top and bottom of the leaf with two fingers. This creates a space between your skin and your fingers.

Is special care required afterwards?

This is only recommended if you are going to cut a lot of leaves. Watering and, if necessary, fertilizing are then recommended. If the plant is trimmed during repotting, the fresh soil will provide new nutrients.

Category:

Garden design