Aloe Vera Plant Care Guide

Background

Not only does the Aloe vera plant have numerous healing properties, it is also a great plant to have in your nursery. Commonly, most people have used aloe vera as an immediate relief to treat minor burns. This succulent is great for beginner plant parents who are afraid of watering commitments.

• Common Name

  Aloe Vera

• Botanical Name

  Aloe Vera, aloe barbandesis.

• Family

  Asphodelaceae, Liliaceae

• Plant Type

  Succulent, Perennial

• Experience Level

  Great for Beginners

• Mature Size

  1ft - 2ft

• Sunlight

  Direct Sunlight

• Soil Type

  Well-draining soil with a pH of 7.0-8.5

• Flower Color

  Yellow

• Hardiness Zones

  8-11 (USDA)

• Nativity

  Dry areas of Africa, Asia, Europe, and America

• Pet Friendliness

  Toxic to Cats and Dogs

Common Types of Aloe Vera

There are about 500 species of aloe in the Asphodelaceae Family. Two of the rarest variations of aloe vera include, the aloe purple haze and aloe hercules. Below are some of the more common varieties of aloe vera.

Aloe Barbadensis Miller

The most common form of aloe vera. It is known most for its holistic uses for the skin and body.

Aloe Brevifolia

One of the smaller variations of aloe. Its coloration varies from blue, green, and gray.

Aloe Striata

With its rainbow-esque appearance. The aloe striata has one of the prettiest coloration of all variations.

Aloe Arborescens

This variation of aloe has multiple heads. It can grow up to 9 feet in size. It has curvy toothed leaves.

Aloe Aristata

This variation of aloe has white little spots on its stems. It is the most unique of the bunch.

Aloe Ferox

Known as bitter aloe. It has thick and fleshy leaves with beautiful spiky orange flowering.

Sunlight Requirements

Aloe vera require a minimum of 6 hours of bright light. This ensures your aloe vera plant maintains its attractive shape. Place your aloe vera plant near a south or west facing window. If your home does not have ample natural light, consider buying white artificial light. If you are keeping your aloe vera plant outdoors, place your pot in an area that receives bright direct light.

Humidity Requirements

Aloe vera plants are native to the drier climates of Africa, Aisa, and Europe, so it is important to keep your aloe plant in a controlled dry environment if it is placed indoors. Keep the humidity levels in your house to about 40%. If you place your aloe plant outdoors, worry less about the humidity and heat and the plant can handle it. Aloe vera plants are succulents and are already good at retaining moisture in its stems.

Temperature Requirements

Aloe vera plants temperature preference is between 55 and 85° F. If you live in an area that temperatures drop below 50 degrees, consider bringing in your aloe plant indoors during the colder months. Make sure that this change is NOT sudden, but gradual. Each day move your aloe plant closer and closer to the door until it is in its resting place for the winter months.

Watering Requirements

Aloe vera plants do not require a lot of water. Never allow your aloe plant to sit still in water for an extended period of time. It requires a well draining soil. Never allow the soil to completely dry out. In hotter months, water after really hot periods, and in the winter time, check the soil to see if watering is required.

Soil Requirements

The perfect soil mix for aloe vera is composed of perlite, sand, coconut husk, and pumice. The soil should be well draining with a pH of 7.0 to 8.5.

Are aloe vera plants succulents?

Yes, the aloe vera plant is a succulent. Its thick and juicy leaves are great at storing water.

Can I keep my aloe vera plant indoors or outdoors?

• Rules for Indoors

  Yes, aloe plants can thrive inside under the proper living conditions. Make sure that your aloe vera plant is getting ample light and put in a dry climate. Be sure not to over water your aloe plant as it is a succulant and retains moisture in its stems.
  

• Rules for Outdoors

  Aloe vera plants can thrive outside as long as the temperatures do not drop below 55 degrees. Place your aloe vera plant in an area where it will get a lot of natural sunlight.

Susceptible Diseases & Pests

Aloe vera plants are susceptible to many pests and diseases, some of which include the following:

• Spider mites

• Snout Beetles

• Gall Mites

• Fungus Gnats

• Basel Stem Rot

• Aloe Rust

• Sooty Mold

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are aloe vera plants toxic for cats and dogs?

  According to the ASPCA, the aloe vera plant is toxic for cats and dogs. Consumption of aloe vera may cause stomach distress, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If ingestion occurs contact a medical professional immediately or visit the ASPCA for more information.

• Do aloe vera plants have air purifying qualities?

  Aloe vera is known as one of the best air purifiers for your home by removing harmful pollutants and taking up carbon dioxide. It also provides abundant oxygen.

• Why are my aloe plant leaves turning brown?

  One of the biggest issues that arise from taking care of aloe vera plants is overwatering. The most common reason that your aloe vera plants leaves are turning brown is due to too much or too little moisture. Make sure you are not overwatering your plant and remember that an aloe vera plant is a succulent and knows how to retain moisture.

• What are some benefits of using aloe vera?

  Some experts claim that aloe vera plants have many beneficial health benefits. Although it is poisonous to swallow, it is able to be ingested when it is professionally filtered and harvested. Some of the health benefits include:

  
  - Anti-aging
  - Helps with acne
  - Reduces plaque
  - Boosts Digestion
  - Soothes Burns
  - Lowers Blood Sugar
  - Treats mouth sores

  
  Always be cautious before using aloe vera, always contact a medical professional for advice before use.