Growing Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) in the home is very popular due to the fact that not only do they look great but they are also incredibly easy to care for. The majority of Aloe Vera available to purchase are actually hybrids of at least two species. The benefit of this is that the hybrid inherits the ability to be grown in a variety of conditions, making it a hardier plant. When growing any plant it is always a good idea to reproduce the growing conditions that the plant is used to in the wild. With an Aloe Vera, you should fool it into thinking that it is growing on a slope by placing differently sized pebbles and stones at the bottom of the plant pot. This will also aid drainage which is important for an Aloe Vera.

Light and Temperature

Because Aloes are native to the Mediterranean and Africa they are used to the sun and warmth. If you live in a cold climate then your Aloe should stay indoors in a sunny spot and should only be taken outside during the summer months. If your Aloe Vera receives plenty of light then you can hope for some yellow/orange flowers.

Watering

Give this plant a really good watering but do not re-water until the soil is dry again. If you over water then the roots will rot and the plant will die. Because this is a succulent, lots of water is held within the leaves so minimal watering is required during winter.

Soil and Feeding

Use a well drained potting mix with sand, grit and pumice or alternatively buy some “cacti mix” potting soil. In the spring use a weak solution of fertilizer.

Besides being a wonderful plant to look at, it also has many health benefits and can be used on burns, insect stings and ingested to aid digestion. As long as you follow the basic advice above there is no reason why you cannot be the owner of a very healthy plant for many years to come. Green Fingerers not required!  It’s not as if you need LED garden lights or anything like that.