John, you are doing a great job. I like the Miracle Fruit tree, have you harvested any fruit? Was the Kumquat difficult to root? Have you looked at potting your citrus in coconut husk chips (CHC)? They provide a large particle size, which helps with aeration of the root system, yet they don't break down nearly as fast as pine bark. They hold 7 times their weight in water, yet they drain very well and so it is hard to over water. I use 3 parts CHC, 1 part peat, 1 part composted manure, with Osmocote Plus. They are supposed to work well on orchids and other plants that require good aeration of the root system. There are some other particulars, email me if you are interested in sources, details and links. Keep up the good work. Robert

i almost forgot! does anyone know what this cactus is? (the blue one in the front)

Well, an offshoot can theoretically be transplanted at any size. It really is best if the offshoot has roots before you plant it. To be on the safe side, I might hold off until the pup reaches 2 inches in height. As for the mother plant, the sad-looking base shouldn't be anything to worry about, unless it is getting moldy. If the plant starts to rot, the stem at the base and up will progressively get off-colored. I recently had to do the same with my aloe. I had watered the cut plant when I transplanted it, and that got it starting to mold. I cut off the discolored portion and it started to root after a few weeks. It molded more easily because I really didn't let the cut callus over, and I should have. I'd say for the parent plant, let the cut callus over, if it hasn't already, and don't water it. You can check it every so often for roots, like once a week. The same treatment will work for the pup also. It is best if it has roots to begin with, though. No worries! :)

they're probably getting fried on that west window. the insides (gel) is the plant's water reserves. you need to give them time to establish themselves. start them out in partial shade, or put a piece of light colored cloth on your west window. i dont remove the pups off my large aloe till they're 5-6 inches tall and has decent roots.