Aloe Vera Care Guide
With its thick, succulent leaves and spiky geometric shapes, the aloe vera plant is simply sublime. Even better, this desert dweller is remarkably easy to care for and tremendously useful.
Aloe has been revered for centuries for its healing, soothing properties. Just crack open one of those plump, juicy leaves to reveal the fresh, slushy gel inside - a natural first-aid remedy for cuts, burns, and dry skin. Beyond its medicinal uses, aloe is a wonderfully low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive for years with basic care.
If you're ready to welcome this resilient succulent into your home, here's everything you need to know to keep your aloe vera plant happy, healthy, and flourishing.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Aloe vera |
| Botanical Name | Aloe barbadensis miller |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent, herb, perennial |
| Mature Size | 12-36 in. tall, 6-12 in. wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full, partial |
| Soil Type | Sandy |
| Soil pH | Acidic |
| Hardiness Zones | USDA 10-12 |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Flower Color | Yellow, red, orange |
| Native Area | Africa |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans, toxic to pets |
Light is Key
Like most succulents, aloe vera craves lots of bright, direct sunlight. Aim to give your plant at least six hours of sunlight each day. A south or west-facing window is ideal.
If your aloe isn't receiving enough light, its leaves will stretch out and lose their compact, upright shape. The plant may also turn a dulled green color rather than maintaining its vibrant, jewel-toned hues.
Too much direct sun can also be problematic, especially in hot summer months. Scorching sunlight may cause the leaves to turn brown and dry out. Adjust your aloe's location seasonally if needed.
The Golden Rules of Watering
Overwatering is one of the biggest pitfalls of aloe vera care. Like most succulents, aloe stores water in its thick, fleshy leaves and has adapted to dry conditions. Too much moisture leads to root rot and decay.
Only water your aloe when the soil is completely dried out. The "soak and dry" method works best – water the plant thoroughly, then wait for the soil to fully dry before watering again. In the winter when growth is minimal, you may only need to water once a month or less.
One of the clearest signs your aloe needs a drink? Its plump leaves will start to wrinkle, shrivel and become thinner. Smooth, plump leaves indicate adequate hydration.
Proper Potting
Aloes do best in a well-draining potting mix made for cacti and succulents. Standard potting soil tends to retain too much moisture. You can make your own fast-draining mix by combining potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, and a bit of crushed charcoal.
Terra cotta pots are an ideal choice for aloe, as the porous clay allows the soil to dry out quickly after watering. Just be sure the pot has a drainage hole to prevent soggy soil.
Allow your aloe's roots to fill the container before repotting into a larger pot. Succulents prefer to be somewhat rootbound and can rot if over-potted into an excessively large container.
The Right Growing Conditions
When it comes to temperature, aloe vera likes it hot. Aim to keep your plant between 70-90°F during spring and summer. A bit of morning sun can help it thrive.
Good for the Skin
Aloe leaves contain a total of 8 enzymes that help repair and regenerate skin cells, which is why the gel makes such an effective natural burn treatment.
In winter when growth slows, aloe prefers cooler temps around 60-70°F. Avoid letting temperatures drop below 50°F, as cold can damage or kill the plant.
Humidity is rarely an issue for these low-moisture-loving plants originating from hot, arid deserts. Average household humidity is typically ideal.
Feed your aloe a balanced liquid fertilizer every few months during the growing season but avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause fertilizer salts to accumulate. Always water the plant thoroughly before feeding to help flush salts away.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Like all houseplants, aloe vera may occasionally run into some hiccups. Here's how to troubleshoot some common issues:
Brown, Dry Leaf Tips: This is normal and not necessarily a cause for concern. Use clean scissors to trim off any dry, cracked tips to improve appearance.
Mushy, Rotting Leaves: The telltale sign of overwatering or root rot. Reduce watering and allow the soil to fully dry out. Remove any mushy, rotten leaves.
Pests (Mites, Mealybugs, etc.): Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to treat affected areas, following instructions carefully.
What About That Onion Smell?
It's worth noting that aloe plants can sometimes give off an onion or garlic-like smell. This is caused by naturally occurring compounds called auxins that are released when leaves are damaged. While not unpleasant to everyone, the aroma can be surprising if you're not expecting it. Simply removing damaged leaves will eliminate the smell.
With basic care and ideal conditions, your aloe vera can thrive for years as a striking, architectural accent that multitasks as a natural skincare essential. Keep this low-fuss succulent's needs in mind and it will reward you with effortless, evergreen beauty.