Growing Aloes in the Low Desert
Aloes are a group of succulents that add beauty and diversity to any garden. Native to the Old World and found on the African mainland, Arabian Peninsula and the islands of Socotra, Madagascar and Comoro. There are more than 500 species of aloe with a variety of forms and colors. Aloe forms include arborescent (tree-like), stemless, clumping or solitary and range in height from six inches to 60 feet. Their leaves can be spotted, striped, gray, bright green or even red. Flower colors range from red to orange, pink, yellow, green, white and even bicolored. Generally, they bloom yearly in winter, but a few species flower in spring, summer or fall. Plan it right to have year-round color.
Water
Aloes need supplemental water to thrive, but the key is to allow the soil to dry out between watering. Water most species at least once a week in early summer. During the summer monsoon season, (July through midSeptember) when humidity is high, adjust irrigation to prevent rot. During the winter, water once a month if no rain occurs and keep dry during freezing temperatures. Some aloes are winter growers, so they prefer drier summers and winter rain. Water about every other week in spring and fall when most aloes are actively growing.
Light and Temperatures
Aloes need bright light, but most will not tolerate the full sun in the low desert. A 50-percent shade factor is ideal for most species. An eastern exposure or filtered sun under a tree canopy are good choices.
In the low desert, cold damage can occur between 24° F. and 32° F., depending on the species. Most survive temperatures into the high 20° F’s. Bloom stalks are sensitive and may be damaged at 32° F.
Soil
Most aloes are adapted to native soils. Well-draining soils are ideal for most aloes. If unsure if your soil is well draining, adjust the length and frequency of irrigation water. Always let the soil dry out between watering. Amending and adding fertilizer is not necessary when planted in the landscape.
Propagation
Propagate most aloes from offshoots or from seed. Solitary species can be started from seed. Soil temperature for aloe seed germination is best between 70°F. and 80° F. A well-draining soil mix is recommended. Separate clumping species and, if roots are present, plant into containers or the landscape. If divided offshoots do not have roots, they can be rooted in perlite or pumice.
Growing Aloes in Containers
Growing aloes in containers accentuates their unique beauty and allows for flexibility in managing their care.
Water
Follow the same water guidelines as in the landscape, but keep in mind containers dry out more quickly. A simple moisture meter allows you to check your containers to determine if over or under watering.
Light and Temperatures
Follow the same exposure guidelines as in the landscape, but keep in mind containers will heat and cool quickly, and will retain heat longer in summer. Move containers to cooler or warmer locations or cover with frost or shade cloth, as needed.
Fertilizer
It is important to fertilize aloes grown in containers, as nutrients are leached out or used by the plant over time. Fertilize with a low nitrogen, water-soluble fertilizer at low strength each watering or at full strength once a month spring through fall. Granular fertilizer can also be used and applied twice a year in spring and fall.
When growing aloes in containers, a well-draining soil is essential. A basic potting soil mix includes 2/3 organic based cactus and succulent potting soil and 1/3 perlite or pumice for additional drainage. Add a granular fertilizer to the soil mix.
Soil