Aloe Vera is well-known for its healing properties and minimal care requirements, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening. With its striking, fleshy leaves, this plant is not only a stunning addition to your home but also a practical one, as it can soothe burns and hydrate skin. Follow this guide to keep your Aloe Vera thriving.
1. Light
Aloe Vera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, but it can handle some direct light as well. Place your Aloe near a sunny window, preferably south or west-facing, where it can get at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so be sure to rotate the plant regularly for even light exposure.
2. Watering
Aloe Vera is a succulent, so it stores water in its thick leaves, meaning it requires infrequent watering. Water your Aloe thoroughly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common issue with Aloe plants. During the winter months, water even less frequently as the plant becomes dormant.
3. Soil & Potting
Aloe Vera requires well-draining soil to avoid soggy roots. A cactus or succulent potting mix works best. When repotting, choose a pot with drainage holes, as this will help excess water escape. Make sure your Aloe has room to grow by repotting every 2-3 years, especially if it's getting crowded in its current container.
4. Temperature & Humidity
Aloe Vera thrives in temperatures between 12°C and 27°C, making it ideal for most indoor environments. While it can tolerate brief periods of cold, extended exposure to freezing temperatures will damage the plant. Aloe Vera prefers a dry environment, so no need to mist or worry about humidity levels.
5. Fertilizing
Aloe Vera doesn’t require frequent feeding, but giving it a balanced houseplant fertilizer once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer) can help promote healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant isn’t actively growing.
6. Common Aloe Vera Problems
- Overwatering: One of the most common issues with Aloe Vera is overwatering, which leads to root rot. If the leaves become mushy or brown, reduce watering and check the soil for moisture.
- Sunburn: Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn brown or red. If this happens, move the plant to a location with more filtered light.
- Pests: Aloe Vera is relatively pest-resistant, but keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like mealybugs or spider mites. A simple solution of neem oil can help remove them.
Conclusion
Aloe Vera is more than just a beautiful houseplant; it’s a healing powerhouse that brings both aesthetic value and wellness benefits into your home. With minimal care, your Aloe Vera will continue to grow and offer you fresh leaves for any skin-soothing needs. Looking to expand your indoor garden with more plants like this? Homegro’s plant subscription delivers fresh, eco-friendly houseplants straight to your door every month, making it easier than ever to build your green oasis.