Aloe Vera Care Guide
Aloe barbadensis miller
Aloe Vera is a succulent famous for its soothing gel used for burns and skincare. It's low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and produces offsets (pups) you can share.
Watering
As a succulent, Aloe Vera stores water in its thick leaves and needs infrequent watering. Water deeply when soil is completely dry โ typically every 2-3 weeks in summer, monthly in winter. Overwatering causes mushy leaves and root rot.
Light Requirements
Aloe Vera loves bright light and can handle some direct sun, especially morning light. South or west-facing windows are ideal. Low light causes leggy, pale growth. If moving to more sun, acclimate gradually to prevent sunburn.
Humidity & Temperature
Aloe thrives in dry conditions and needs no extra humidity. It's perfect for arid climates and air-conditioned spaces. Keep temperatures between 55-85ยฐF. Avoid frost โ it's not cold-hardy.
Fertilizing
Aloe is a light feeder. Fertilize 2-3 times during the growing season with diluted succulent fertilizer. Over-fertilizing is worse than under-fertilizing. Many aloe thrive for years without any fertilizer.
Common Problems
- Mushy leaves: Overwatering or root rot. Let dry completely and reduce watering.
- Brown tips: Usually sunburn or underwatering.
- Flat, thin leaves: Not enough light or water.
- Leggy growth: Insufficient light. Move to brighter location.
- Red/brown coloring: Sun stress โ can be normal but move to indirect light if concerned.
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