How to plant and care for aloe vera?

Aloe vera has thick green leaves that are lush and green all year round, full of vitality and very ornamental. It has strong survival ability, is drought and heat resistant, and is hardy and easy to grow. Many people like to grow this plant at home. So how to plant and maintain aloe vera? Let’s take a look together below.

1. Selection of planting materials

Choose healthy, disease- and insect-free aloe seedlings or divisions for planting. You can buy them from nurseries or get them from other growers.

2. Pot soil selection

Aloe vera grows best in well-drained soil, such as sandy soil or vermiculite topsoil. You can add an appropriate amount of perlite , gravel or river sand to increase drainage.

3. Seeding or transplanting

Carefully place the aloe plant in the potting soil, making sure the roots are firmly embedded in the soil, and gently compact the soil to stabilize the plant. If transplanting a ramet, separate the ramet along the main stem and place it in a new container.

4. Lighting

Aloe vera prefers bright light and can be grown indoors or outdoors. If growing indoors, choose a location with full sun, such as a bright area near a window.

5. Temperature

Aloe vera is adapted to warm climates. Keep the indoor temperature between 15-27 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to cold environments below 10 degrees Celsius.

6. Watering

Aloe vera is drought-tolerant and prefers a dry environment. Before watering, make sure the soil is dry to a depth of at least 1-2 inches. Then water the entire root zone evenly with an appropriate amount of water. Reduce watering during the winter to allow the plant to enter a dormant state.

7. Fertilization

Aloe vera does not require frequent fertilization. A diluted indoor plant fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months. Be sure to follow the package instructions for fertilizing and avoid overdosing.

8. Pruning

Pruning the plant can improve its health and appearance. If pests and diseases occur or the leaves turn yellow, the affected parts can be pruned off.

9. Plant propagation

Aloe vera can be propagated by side shoots and seeds. If there are side shoots, they can be carefully cut off and replanted in a new container. Seeds take longer to germinate and are therefore relatively rarely used.

It is important to note that aloe plants may be sensitive to excessive moisture, cold, or fertilizers that are too concentrated. Observe the health of the plants regularly and make appropriate adjustments and care as needed.