Aloe Vera is a species of succulent plant in the Aloe genus. The plant has thick, fleshy, greenish leaves that fan out from the stem at the centre and are stemless or extremely short stems, with the leaf’s margin being toothed and serrated.
Because of its abundance of vitamins, minerals, and other active substances, aloe vera has many health benefits. There are three primary layers on each aloe vera leaf. A 99% water inner gel surrounds an outer layer of amino acids, glucomannans, sterols, lipids, and vitamins. Latex, a yellow sap that contains glycosides and anthraquinones, makes up the middle layer.
Lastly, the rind-designated outer layer comprises 15 to 20 cells. It functions by defending the leaf’s interior while simultaneously synthesizing proteins and carbohydrates.
How To Grow Aloe Vera
Otherwise known as aloe offsets or offshoots, you can easily separate aloe pups with minimal equipment and information. You only need to wait until the pup is big enough to separate from the mother. The size of the offset removal will vary depending on the aloe kind. As a general rule, wait until the offset has multiple sets of genuine leaves or is at least one-fifth the size of the parent plant.
Here are some tips on how to take care of your Aloe Vera:
- Maintain a bright, indirect light source near your aloe plant. The plant can burn if exposed to too much light abruptly. If your aloe plant gets burned by the sun, the green leaves will be discoloured by a white or light brown stain, and the charred leaves’ hue will not change.
- Avoid placing aloe vera near drafty doors or vents, particularly during winter.
- In between watering, let the soil dry out. Before watering, you check the moisture level of the soil by using your finger.
- Put your aloe plant in a pot with sufficient drainage.
- Choose the best soil mix – Since aloe vera plants are succulents, the type of soil you select will significantly impact its growth.
Best Potting Soil for Aloe Vera Indoors
Although aloe vera is originally predisposed to grow in arid, sandy climates of the Arabian Peninsula, it is now extensively grown in tropical and warm climates worldwide. The plant can last healthily for years with the appropriate soil and enough light. Let us look at the best soil composts for growing these succulents:
Generic Succulent Plant Soil
Peat moss, perlite, lime, and horticultural-grade sand are the ingredients in this succulent mixture. Peat moss and perlite slowly absorb some moisture and release it, while the sand and lime assist the mixture in draining quickly.
The mixture won’t become compressed over time and provides enough air to maintain the health of the aloe vera roots. Repotting one or two small aloe vera plants only requires a single bag of this succulent plant soil.
Superfly Bonsai Succulent and Cactus Soil Mix
Thanks to the combination of Japanese akadama and haydite in this potting mixture, an aloe vera plant can go without water for a long time without getting damaged. To keep aloe healthy, the two clay pellets slowly release moisture after absorbing a small amount.
Along with providing structural support, the pellets and pumice grains are essential for securing the roots of large, top-heavy aloe vera plants so they remain firmly in the container. Additionally, there is New Zealand Pine Bark, which offers aeration and has a moderate biodegradation rate.
Hoffman Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix
The combination of sphagnum peat moss, reed sedge peat, perlite, sand, and limestone in this soil mixture makes it the perfect medium for cultivating various succulent plants, including aloe vera.
Although peat is naturally acidic and the Hoffman combination contains two different types of peat, adding limestone balances the mixture’s acid/alkaline ratio to keep it within the appropriate pH range of 5.5 to 8.5. The mixture is packaged in a 4-quart bag and is expertly made. Additionally, growing advice and usage instructions are provided.
Steps For Planting Your Aloe Vera
After preparing all the materials needed for your Aloe Vera, the next step is to plant it. Here are the steps for planting your new Aloe plant:
- Prepare and rinse your new pot and let it dry.
- Place a filter on the pot’s drainage hole to keep the soil from falling and allow water to get drained.
- Remove the aloe vera from its current container and brush off any dirt from its roots without damaging it.
- Place your plant in the soil after filling the pot with potting soil that drains approximately a third of the way appropriately. Remember to leave at least 3/4 of an inch of space between the top of the soil and the rim of the pot when you fill in the soil around the plant.
Harvesting Aloe Vera Gel
Source: google
Aloe vera gel is a clear, sticky substance obtained from the aloe vera plant leaves. It is used to soothe skin irritations and sunburns and to heal wounds. Aloe vera gel contains several compounds that are beneficial for the skin, including antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
To harvest aloe vera gel from your aloe plant, remove a mature leaf from the aloe vera plant and cut it lengthwise to benefit from the plant’s calming effects. Lay the opened leaf gel-side-down on top of the burn, or squeeze the gel out of the leaf and apply it to the wound. The gel should not be consumed as it may cause nausea and other side effects.
Conclusion
Growing an aloe vera plant at home is a great way to access this natural remedy easily. It is easy to care for and can be grown in various climates. It is also a great plant to get started on your gardening journey. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your aloe vera plant thrives and provides you with its benefits.
FAQs
Can I use regular potting soil for aloe vera?
Aloe vera cannot grow in regular potting soil because it is too dense. Aloe vera plants require exceptionally well-drained soil. A blend of sand, perlite, pumice, and finely ground pine bark make up the best aloe plant potting soil.
How often should I water my aloe vera?
Typically, you should water your aloe plant every two to three weeks in the spring and summer and even less frequently in the fall and winter. One general guideline for watering in the fall and winter is to double the intervals between waterings.
How long does it take for an Aloe vera to grow to full size?
Indoor aloe vera plants need three to four years to develop from a pup to a fully grown plant with mature leaves measuring 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm). Ensure you give your plants the best care possible, prepare before planting, and speed up growth with fertilizer.
