How to Grow Aloe Vera

Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), also known as Barbados aloe, is a striking succulent with spiky, fleshy leaves that have serrated edges. Originating from hot, arid regions, Aloe vera stores water in its leaves, making it highly drought-resistant and easy to care for—perfect for beginners.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Aloe vera is often called the “first aid plant” due to its soothing sap, which can help treat burns, sunburn, insect bites, and minor skin irritations. Simply cut a leaf at the base, slice it lengthwise, and apply the sap directly to the affected skin.

Aloe vera looks great on its own but also pairs well with other succulents and cacti in a bright indoor space. During summer, you can move it outdoors, where it may produce yellow, tubular flowers—though it is primarily grown for its distinctive form.

How to Grow Aloe Vera

Light and Placement
Aloe vera thrives in bright locations. A sunny windowsill or shelf is ideal. While it can tolerate some direct sunlight, excessive exposure may scorch its leaves.

Watering
Overwatering is the most common cause of Aloe vera failure. Water sparingly—only when the top few centimeters of soil are dry. Ensure excess water drains completely and avoid watering in winter.

Pot and Soil
A terracotta pot is best, as its porous nature allows soil to dry out between waterings. Ensure the pot has drainage holes and is just big enough to fit the root ball. Use cactus or houseplant compost, or mix regular peat-free compost with horticultural grit or perlite for improved drainage. A top layer of grit helps keep the base dry and prevents rot.

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Caring for Aloe Vera

• Watering: As a succulent, Aloe vera stores water in its leaves. Let the top layer of soil dry completely before watering. In winter, watering should be minimal.
• Repotting: Aloes grow slowly, needing repotting only every two to three years.
• Feeding: From April to September, feed every two months with a diluted plant fertilizer.
• Cleaning: Occasionally wipe the leaves to remove dust and keep them healthy.

How to Propagate Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is easy to propagate using offsets (baby plants) that grow at its base:

1. Wait until offsets are about one-fifth the size of the parent plant.
2. Gently remove the plant from its pot and separate the offsets, ensuring they have roots attached. If rootless, let them dry for a couple of days before planting.
3. Plant the offsets in cactus compost or well-draining multipurpose compost with added perlite.
4. Water lightly, ensuring excess water drains away.

If you enjoy propagating plants, you might also be interested in learning how to grow basil, a flavorful herb that’s easy to cultivate. Additionally, for another low-maintenance houseplant, check out how to grow and care for Dracaena.

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Common Aloe Vera Problems & Solutions

• Red leaves: Too much direct sunlight. Move to a bright but shaded spot.
• Wrinkled leaves: The plant is dehydrated. Water lightly over a few days and mist the leaves.
• Pale/yellow leaves: Possible overwatering or insufficient light.
• Brown/mushy leaves: Overwatering has caused rot.
• Scale insects: Small brown pests (5mm long) on leaves. Remove with a cotton pad soaked in organic insecticide.

Buying Aloe Vera: What to Look For

• Choose a bright location with indirect light for your plant.
• Buy from garden centers, nurseries, or specialist retailers for the best variety.
• Check for healthy green leaves with no signs of pests or damage.

Popular Aloe Vera Varieties

• Aloe ‘Lime Fizz’ – Compact with orange, raised markings on the leaf edges. (H: 15cm, S: 30cm)
• Aloe arborescens (Torch Aloe) – Large rosettes with toothed, sword-shaped leaves. Produces tall, red flowers similar to red hot pokers. (H: 4m, S: 2m)
• Aloe ‘Red Sparkler’ – Bronze-green leaves with white spots and small white teeth. Blooms with pink flowers in summer. (H: 30cm, S: 30cm)
• Aloe polyphylla (Spiral Aloe) – Features stunning spiral foliage. Unlike most aloes, it requires more water and tolerates freezing temperatures. Best grown at an angle to aid water runoff. (H: 50cm, S: 50cm)

frequently asked questions (FAQs) about growing Aloe vera:

1. How often should I water my Aloe vera plant?
   Aloe vera is a succulent and stores water in its leaves, so it requires minimal watering. Water only when the top few centimeters of soil are dry—typically every two to three weeks in warmer months and even less in winter.
2. Why are my Aloe vera leaves turning brown and mushy?
   Brown, mushy leaves are usually a sign of overwatering. Ensure your pot has drainage holes, use well-draining soil, and allow excess water to escape to prevent root rot.
3. Can Aloe vera grow indoors?
   Yes! Aloe vera thrives indoors as long as it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. A windowsill or well-lit shelf is ideal. Just avoid excessive direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
4. How do I propagate Aloe vera?
   Aloe vera produces baby plants, called offsets or pups, at its base. Once they are about one-fifth the size of the parent plant, carefully remove them, ensuring they have roots attached. Plant them in well-draining cactus soil and water sparingly.
5. What should I do if my Aloe vera leaves are wrinkled?
   Wrinkled leaves usually indicate dehydration. Water lightly over a few days and mist the leaves if necessary. However, avoid drenching the soil, as Aloe vera dislikes sitting in wet compost.

With proper care, Aloe vera is a resilient, low-maintenance plant that adds beauty and function to any home.