Aloe vera care: watering, light and repotting
Also called aloe, medicinal aloe · Aloe vera · Asphodelaceae family
30 d in winter
How often to water the aloe vera?
Allow about 14 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 30 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
A succulent: free-draining soil, lots of light, and water only when the soil is completely dry.
What light does it need?
The aloe vera loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from May to July, feeding every 45 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Soft, see-through leaves
Cause: Too much water. What to do: Stop watering and repot in cactus compost.
Stretched, flopping leaves
Cause: Not enough light. What to do: Put it on a sunny windowsill.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the aloe vera?
About every 2 weeks in spring and summer, and every 30 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the aloe vera?
The aloe vera loves the sun: a south- or west-facing window suits it, ideally less than 3 ft (1 m) from the glass. Without enough light, the stems stretch and growth slows down.
Should you mist the aloe vera?
There's no need: indoor air suits it. Wetting its leaves for no reason can even encourage disease.
When should you repot the aloe vera?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the aloe vera safe?
The aloe vera is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the aloe vera forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.