Aloe vera care
Aloe vera is a succulent from the Arabian Peninsula. It wants sun, gritty soil and to be left alone between waterings.
Light
Bright light with direct sun; a south or west window.
Watering
Water deeply when the soil is completely dry, about every 2–3 weeks. Much less in winter.
Soil, feeding and repotting
Soil: Cactus mix in a terracotta pot.
Feeding: Diluted succulent fertiliser once or twice in summer.
Repotting: When pups crowd the pot.
Propagation
Separate offsets (pups) with some roots and pot them up.
Problems and fixes
| What you see | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Brown, mushy leaves | Overwatering. | Let it dry fully; repot if roots rot. |
| Thin, curling leaves | Thirst. | Water deeply. |
| Flat, sprawling leaves | Too little light. | Move to direct sun gradually. |
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Ask about your aloe vera
Questions gardeners ask
How often should I water aloe vera?
Every two to three weeks in summer and about monthly or less in winter, when the soil is dry.