Tips on How to Grow Aloe Vera
Spring is in the air and gardening season is almost upon us! Every year when spring rolls around I get busy transplanting, trimming and fertilizing my indoor houseplants. I grow all kinds of things, but some of my favorites to grow are ferns, spider plants, snake plants and aloe vera. Matter of fact, every home should have a few aloe vera plants!
Why aloe? Well, because the juice from an aloe plant can help ease the sting from a burn, stop the itching from bug bites, help treat acne and it’s a great moisturizer. It’s one of natures best gifts! Aloe is easy-to-grow and one of the most popular indoor plants.
Tips on How to Grow Aloe Vera
1. The Pot – I recommend using a standard size pot. The plant will need plenty of room to grow. Your pot can be made out of plastic, ceramic, metal, terracotta, etc. Make sure it has a good drainage system. If not, place small rocks in the bottom of your pot or crushed seashells.
2. The Soil – Always use good soil that is rich in nutrients or made for the specific type of plant that you’re planting. You can use regular potting soil or in this case…look for soil that is made specifically for succulents and/or cactus.
3. The Plant – You should only plant the healthiest plants that you can find. Avoid plants with mold, damage or if they’re limp. Plant or transplant it right away. Place it into the center of the pot, covering all roots and at least 1/2″ up the center stem. Press soil down firmly with your hands.
4. The Nutrition – The soil should be kept slightly damp when touched. Don’t over-saturate it or water them too much. Aloes don’t need a lot of water. Twice a year you can add plant food and/or fertilizer needed.
5. The Location – Aloe plants need a lot of sunshine and do best when placed near a window that gets sunshine at least 50% of the day. They can sit on a windowsill, on a shelf or place in a hanging basket.
When it comes to harvesting the juice from your aloe plant you want to break off a piece of a leaf from the outside of the plant. (don’t disturb the inner leaves). Squeeze out the juice directly onto your skin or affected area. I use the juice to treat all kinds of minor ailments from bug bites, rashes, burns, acne breakouts, etc. One of my best kept secrets is using the juice on the roots of my hair! Just squeeze it onto your hair, massage in, leave it on for 10-15 minutes and then shampoo as normal.
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