Aloe Vera

When it comes to watering Aloe vera, moderation is key. It can withstand both periods of drought and occasional overwatering. If you err, it's best to underwater. Being a succulent, it stores water in its leaves, so it's important not to overdo it. The potting mixture completely dries out and then wait until the soil feels dry to the touch before watering again. In winter, water less, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings.

Aloe vera will survive in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright to indirect sunlight, making it a great choice for indoor environments. It can also handle some full direct sunlight if it is gradually introduced. A period of 4 to 6 hours per day of full sunlight is ideal. When placed in indirect light, the leaves may turn from blue-green to green or yellowish green. Insufficient lighting results in thin leaves that tend to flop over.

Aloe vera is quite temperature hardy, and can survive temperatures as low as 40°F (4.5°C), and as high as 95°F (35°C). When kept indoors, the ideal temperature range is between 70°F (21°C) and 90°F (32°C). In colder months, place it away from drafts and allow it to rest in a cool spot.

Aloe vera is a hardy species that can handle humidity levels ranging from 10% to 40%. However, when kept indoors, it’s best to maintain a slightly higher humidity from 40% to 60%. To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly using a spray bottle. Alternatively, you can place a humidifier nearby. If your home is naturally very dry, keeping it near a steamy bathroom may help.

Aloe vera needs a well-draining soil mix. A good mix that will provide necessary drainage to prevent root rot should be composed of 55% potting mix and 45% pumice or perlite. You can also add some builder’s sand to further aerate the soil. Be sure the soil is moist but not wet before potting the plant, and avoid compression when filling the pot.

Aloe vera does not need to be fertilized, however, they can benefit from an occasional feed with a cactus and succulent fertilizer during the growing season. Aim for a balanced liquid fertilizer that contains nitrogen, potash (potassium) and phosphorus. Feed at 1/4 strength every other week, and water as usual.

Aloe vera is fairly resistant to pests, but it can become infested with mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and occasionally aphids. To get rid of the infestation, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for small outbreaks. Spray the entire plant, including the underside of leaves, then wait a few days and re-treat if necessary. For larger outbreaks, use an insecticide, but be sure to read the instructions carefully. Be sure to keep an eye out for signs of infestation, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, or white spots.

Aloe vera should be repotted every other year or so, depending upon its growth rate. The best time to repot is in the spring, before new growth begins. When selecting a new pot, aim for one slightly larger than the original. A clay pot with good drainage is ideal, as this will help to prevent overwatering. Before you repot, remove any old soil from the roots and trim off any dead or damaged roots. Then, fill the new pot with a potting mix suitable for succulent plants.

Aloe vera should not need pruning, unless it starts to get too large for its pot, or has dead or damaged leaves. If needed, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors to cut away the diseased or discolored leaves. Avoid cutting into the center of the foliage, as this tends to damage the plant. Cutting away more than half of the foliage can shock the plant, so be careful!

Aloes do not require a mulch, but adding a thin layer of organic mulch can help to keep the soil moist and suppress weeds. If using mulch, aim for a thin layer of either bark chips, coconut husk, or straw.

Aloe vera is an easy succulent to propagate, and can be done with either pups or cuttings. To start, carefully remove an offset from an adult plant, being sure to leave at least 2-3 inches of stem with the offset. Plant in a well-draining potting mix and water it lightly. A pup propagated in this way will take about three weeks to sprout new roots and become well established in its new pot. To take stem cuttings, use a sharp, sterilised blade to take a cutting from the parent plant, leaving at least 2 inches of stem with the cutting. Plant the cutting in a potting mix and water it lightly. It should take about two weeks to develop roots.

Aloe vera is naturally very sturdy and does not need supports or stakes, but a stake may be useful if the plant is weighed down with a lot of heavy blooms or foliage. A wooden or bamboo stake can be placed in the potting mix and gently tied around the plant base to provide support.

Aloe vera doesn’t require a dormant period, but it is beneficial to give it some rest in the winter when the light is not as strong. Reduce watering during winter and the plant will slow down its growth. This will also help it to build up energy for vigorous summer growth.

Aloe vera is generally not toxic to cats and dogs, although it is not recommended for cats to eat it. The best way to make sure your pets don't touch it is to place it in a location that is inaccessible to them.