Aloe Vera

Meet Aloe Vera, your new best friend in the plant world. Not only does this easygoing succulent have stunning, spiky leaves that add a modern touch to any space, but it's also a natural healer. Its gel is packed with skin-loving benefits (hello, sunburn relief!), making it a must-have in your plant collection. Best of all, Aloe Vera is super low-maintenance — once you know what she needs, she’ll thrive with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to keep your Aloe Vera happy and healthy!

🌞 Light: Bright, Direct Sunlight is Her Jam Aloe Vera loves the sun and thrives in bright, direct light. The more sunlight she gets, the better — but don’t leave her in a spot where the sun is too intense all day. A south- or west-facing window is perfect, giving her plenty of sunlight without burning her leaves.

Bonus Tip: If her leaves start stretching toward the light, it’s her way of saying, “I need more sun!” If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, she might be getting too much direct sunlight, so try a slightly less intense spot.

💦 Watering: Less Is More Aloe Vera is a succulent, which means she loves to dry out between waterings. Let the soil dry out completely before giving her a drink. When you do water, make sure it's thorough, but always allow the excess water to drain out. Aloe doesn’t like sitting in water, and too much moisture can cause root rot.

Bonus Tip: In the winter months, when Aloe Vera is in a dormant phase, she’ll need even less water. Scale back and only water when the soil is dry about 2 inches down.

🌡️ Temperature: Warm and Cozy Aloe Vera loves warmth! Keep her in a spot that stays between 59°F – 77°F (15°C – 25°C). Avoid placing her near drafts, air conditioners, or heaters, as temperature fluctuations can stress her out.

Bonus Tip: Aloe Vera is pretty tolerant of heat, but she doesn’t like cold temperatures. If it dips below 50°F (10°C), bring her indoors or make sure she's in a cozy spot.

🌱 Humidity: Low to Average Aloe Vera is a desert plant and doesn’t require high humidity. She’s totally fine in dry indoor air, making her a great choice for homes with lower humidity. Just make sure she’s getting plenty of sunlight and the occasional drink.

Bonus Tip: If your home tends to be on the dry side, just keep an eye on the soil and watering. Aloe Vera doesn’t mind dry air as long as it doesn’t impact the watering schedule.

🌿 Soil: Well-Draining is Key Aloe Vera needs well-draining soil to prevent water from sitting around her roots. A cactus or succulent potting mix works best, or you can create your own mix by adding perlite or sand to a standard potting mix. This allows water to pass through quickly, keeping the roots happy.

Bonus Tip: Always make sure the pot has drainage holes! Aloe Vera isn’t into soggy feet, and drainage is crucial to avoid root rot.

🌳 Potting & Repotting: Room to Grow Aloe Vera grows slowly, so you don’t need to repot her often. Every 2-3 years should be plenty, or when you notice her outgrowing her pot. Choose a pot that’s only slightly larger than her current one — Aloe Vera doesn’t like too much space.

Bonus Tip: Repot your Aloe Vera in the spring when it’s actively growing. Avoid repotting in the colder months, as she’ll be in a resting phase.

🧹 Cleaning: Keep Those Leaves Healthy Aloe Vera’s thick, waxy leaves can gather dust over time. Gently wipe them down with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to keep them clean and help her photosynthesize more efficiently. Be careful not to damage her leaves, as they’re quite delicate.

Bonus Tip: You don’t need to polish her leaves with any products. A clean, damp cloth is all you need to keep her looking fresh and vibrant.

⚡ Troubleshooting: What to Watch For

  • Yellow Leaves: If your Aloe Vera’s leaves are turning yellow, it’s usually a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out more thoroughly before watering again.
  • Soft, Mushy Leaves: This is another sign of overwatering. Aloe Vera’s leaves should be firm to the touch. If they’re squishy, cut back on watering.
  • Brown Tips or Spots: Brown tips can indicate that your Aloe Vera is getting too much direct sunlight. If the leaves are getting sunburned, move her to a slightly less intense light spot.

Aloe Vera’s Signature Look With her bold, thick leaves and spiky edges, Aloe Vera is a plant that makes a statement. Not only does she look great on her own, but she’s also super low-maintenance and easy to care for. Whether you’re new to plants or a seasoned pro, Aloe Vera is a must-have for your indoor garden!

You’ve got this! Stick to the basics — bright sunlight, a dry soil routine, and a little love — and your Aloe Vera will reward you with beautiful, healthy leaves and that soothing gel you can use in a pinch.