Aloe Vera Care: The Plant That Heals Itself (And You)

Aloe vera is the plant that everyone should have.

It is useful (soothing gel for burns and cuts), nearly indestructible (if you do not drown it), and multiplies on its own (free plants forever).

Plus, it is satisfying. You cut a leaf, squeeze out the gel, and use it. No processing. No waiting. Just plant-to-skin healing.

Quick Care Summary

  • Light: Bright, indirect light (can handle some direct sun)
  • Water: When soil is completely dry (every 2 to 3 weeks)
  • Soil: Cactus mix or well-draining soil
  • Biggest mistake: Overwatering

Light

Aloe vera loves bright light.

Best light:

  • South or west-facing window
  • Bright, indirect light with a few hours of gentle direct sun
  • East-facing windows work too

Signs of too little light:

  • Leaves are thin and floppy
  • Plant is leaning hard toward the window
  • Pale, yellowish-green color

Signs of too much light:

  • Leaves turn brown or reddish
  • Tips look scorched

Pro tip: If you move aloe from low light to bright sun, do it gradually. Sudden sun exposure can burn the leaves.

Watering

This is where most people go wrong. Aloe vera is a succulent. It stores water in its thick leaves. It does not need frequent watering.

How to water:

  1. Let the soil dry out completely (stick your finger 2 inches down)
  2. When totally dry, water deeply until it drains
  3. Wait until it is dry again before watering

How often?

  • Spring and summer: Every 2 to 3 weeks
  • Fall and winter: Every 3 to 4 weeks (maybe longer)

Signs of overwatering:

  • Leaves turning yellow or brown
  • Soft, mushy leaves
  • Leaves falling off easily
  • Root rot (black, slimy roots)

Signs of underwatering:

  • Leaves wrinkling or shriveling
  • Tips turning brown and crispy
  • Leaves feel thin

Pro tip: Aloe can go a month without water and recover. When in doubt, wait.

Soil and Pot

Drainage is everything.

Best soil:

  • Cactus and succulent mix
  • Or regular potting soil mixed with perlite (1:1 ratio)

Pot requirements:

  • Must have drainage holes (non-negotiable)
  • Terracotta is ideal (wicks away moisture)

Aloe does not mind being slightly root-bound. Do not rush to repot.

Temperature and Humidity

Aloe vera is tough.

  • Temperature: 55 to 80 F
  • Humidity: Dry indoor air is fine

Keep it away from cold drafts and freezing temperatures (below 50 F can damage it).

Fertilizer

Aloe does not need much food.

  • Fertilize once in spring with diluted liquid fertilizer
  • Skip fertilizing in fall and winter

Honestly, you can skip fertilizing entirely and the plant will be fine.

Propagating Aloe (The Easy Way)

Aloe produces baby plants (pups) around the base. Once a pup has a few leaves, you can separate it.

How to propagate:

  1. Remove the plant from the pot
  2. Gently separate the pup from the mother plant (it should have some roots)
  3. Let the pup dry for 1 to 2 days (this prevents rot)
  4. Plant in dry cactus mix
  5. Wait a week before watering lightly

Pups root quickly and grow fast.

Using Aloe Vera Gel

This is why you grow aloe.

How to harvest:

  1. Cut a mature outer leaf close to the base
  2. Let it sit upright for a few minutes (the yellow sap drains out)
  3. Slice the leaf open lengthwise
  4. Scoop out the clear gel with a spoon

Use the gel for:

  • Sunburns
  • Minor cuts and scrapes
  • Dry skin
  • Face masks

Storage: Fresh gel lasts 1 week in the fridge. Freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage.

Pro tip: Do not use aloe gel internally unless it is specifically labeled as edible. The yellow sap can be a laxative.

Common Problems

Leaves turning brown

Could be overwatering, too much sun, or cold damage. Check soil moisture and move out of harsh light.

Leaves are thin and floppy

Not enough light or underwatering. Move to a brighter spot.

Plant is falling over

Needs more light or the pot is too small. Aloe grows toward light, so rotate regularly. If top-heavy, repot into a wider pot.

Yellow, mushy leaves

Overwatering or root rot. Let soil dry completely, reduce watering, and check for rotting roots.

Repotting Aloe Vera

Repot every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.

How to repot:

  1. Use a pot one size larger with drainage
  2. Fill with cactus mix
  3. Remove plant and shake off old soil
  4. Check roots for rot and trim any damaged parts
  5. Plant at the same depth as before
  6. Wait a week before watering

What To Do Next

  • If you love aloe, try Haworthia or Gasteria (similar care, different look)
  • If you want another medicinal plant, try growing mint or chamomile
  • If your aloe is producing pups, propagate them and share with friends
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