Aloe care guide
Aloe
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Compounds near the leaf rind are known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy in dogs and cats; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian, or a doctor for a child, if eaten.
How often to water Aloe
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 10 days
- Most are summer growers: as a guide, water deeply two or three days after the soil dries through, and go lighter on small species and hybrids in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 14 days
- Cut back as it cools; as a guide, wait a few days to a week after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every month
- Growth nearly stops, so keep it on the dry side and moisten lightly about once a month on a mild morning.
Light and placement for Aloe
Large species generally want full sun outdoors, while the small species and hybrids sold as succulents take sun in spring and fall but light shade in midsummer; indoors, use the brightest window.
Overwintering Aloe
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
Hardiness varies by species, from about 0°C to needing 5°C or more; if unsure, as a guide bring it to a sunny window before nights drop below about 3°C, keep it dry, and keep frost off it.
Fertilizing and repotting Aloe
Fertilizer
It needs little: as a guide, diluted liquid feed about monthly in spring and fall or a little slow-release fertilizer in spring, less for small species, and none in midsummer or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Aloe
- Overwatered in winter, the roots rot and the base turns mushy.
- In poor light the leaves thin and stretch and the plant loses its shape.
- Small species suffer in direct midsummer sun and stagnant humidity.
Tips for growing Aloe
- Growth pattern and hardiness vary by variety and conditions, so keep a note of the label name.
- Plant in a fast-draining succulent mix and do not leave water in the saucer.
- Pups at the base can be detached in spring, dried a few days, and planted.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
