Aloe vera care guide
Aloe vera
Also known as: Aloe barbadensis
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Compounds in 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 vera
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 10 days
- A summer grower: water thoroughly about two or three days after the soil dries; it drinks in midsummer too when dry, but move it under the eaves through long rains.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 14 days
- As it cools, lengthen the gaps and water a few days after the soil dries, about every two weeks.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every month
- Growth stops in winter, so water lightly about once a month on a mild morning.
Light and placement for Aloe vera
A summer grower that generally wants sun and moving air; in poor light the leaves thin, splay, and flop, so use the brightest window indoors, and acclimate a plant moved outside before midsummer sun.
Overwintering Aloe vera
Overwintering guide: 3°C (37°F) or above
Somewhat tender: as a guide, bring it to a bright window when nights drop below about 3°C and keep it on the dry side, since frost turns the leaves translucent and kills them back.
Fertilizing and repotting Aloe vera
Fertilizer
Diluted liquid fertilizer about once a month from spring to fall, none in winter; it also does fine without any.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Aloe vera
- Overwatered in winter, the roots rot and the leaves brown at the base.
- In poor light the leaves go thin and droopy and the plant topples.
- Frost turns the leaves translucent and damages them.
Tips for growing Aloe vera
- Pups form around the base; detach them at repotting.
- Thin, curled leaves mean thirst; a mushy base means too much water.
- Heavy plants stay upright in a deeper pot with a drainage hole.
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.
