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Create an Aloe variegata pot display

in : Pots & containers: Hot & tropical

You will need

  • Aloe variegata x4
  • Decorative slate mulch
  • Square terrazzo planter
  • Crocks
  • Free-draining compost made from equal parts of loam-based compost and horticultural grit

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Overview

In this easy-to-make display, we've combined aloe with a contemporary planter to produce a simple but striking result. Aloe is a succulent plant which, although frost tender, will survive in a sheltered spot in summer.
Plant it: May - August
At its best: May - October
Takes just: 30 minutes

How to do it:

Placing crocks in the container base

1Cover the bottom of the planter with a layer of crocks.

Placing compost in the container

2Fill the container two thirds with compost.

Aloe plants - removing from pots

3Carefully remove the aloes from their pots and arrange them in the planter. Fill in the gaps between the plants with compost, firming it around the roots with your fingers.

Finishing with a slate mulch

4Spread a layer of mulch over the top of the compost. We've used pieces of slate but you could use grit, pebbles, crushed shells or glass chippings. If frost is forecast in May, cover the plants with horticultural fleece at night.

Adam's tip

Keep this container in the sunniest position possible and it may even reward you with flowers.
When planting aloes, make sure you use a really gritty compost mix as they like a well-drained soil and don't survive if their roots are constantly wet. Aloes can be overwintered on a windowsill or in a greenhouse.

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