Simple steps to plant and care for aloe vera indoors

Aloe vera is a very popular houseplant for its numerous health benefits and air-purifying properties. It is an ideal plant for beginners as it requires minimal care and is hardy enough to thrive indoors. If you want to grow aloe vera at home, here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant and care for it indoors.

Step 1: Choose the right pot and soil

1. Choose a pot with drainage holes

Aloe vera plants are prone to root rot if water sits at the bottom of the pot for too long. Choose a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. A terracotta or clay pot is ideal because it absorbs excess moisture and helps keep the soil dry.

2. Select a well-drained soil

Aloe vera prefers dry, well-drained soil, similar to its natural desert environment. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, which is designed for plants that need good drainage. If you can’t find a succulent mix, create your own by combining regular potting soil with sand or perlite in a 1:1 ratio.

Step 2: Plant aloe vera

1. Prepare the pot

Before planting, add a layer of small stones or pebbles to the bottom of the pot to improve drainage. Then, fill the pot halfway with well-draining soil mix.

2. Position the aloe vera plant

Carefully remove the aloe vera plant from its current container. Place it in the center of the new pot and gently spread out the roots. Make sure the base of the plant, where the leaves begin, is slightly above soil level. Aloe vera does not like to be planted too deeply.

3. Fill the pot

After placing the plant, add more soil around the roots until the pot is full. Press the soil lightly to secure the plant in place. Avoid watering immediately after planting to allow the plant to settle.

Step 3: Provide adequate lighting

1. Find a bright spot

Aloe vera grows well in bright, indirect sunlight. Place the plant near a south- or west-facing window where it can receive 6 to 8 hours of light a day. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, as it can burn the leaves and cause them to turn brown.

2. Use artificial grow lights

If your home does not have enough natural light, you can supplement it with artificial lights for cultivation. Place the light about 30-45 cm from the plant and keep it on for 12 to 14 hours a day.

Step 4: Watering the aloe vera

1. Water in moderation

Aloe vera is a succulent that stores water in its leaves, so it doesn’t need frequent watering. The key is to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Water deeply once every 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the humidity and temperature of your home.

2. Avoid overwatering

One of the most common problems with aloe vera is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Always check the soil before watering. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil; if it’s dry, it’s time to water.

3. Bottom water

When watering, pour water directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves. Aloe vera leaves can rot if they are constantly exposed to water. Make sure the water drains out of the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Temperature and humidity

1. Ideal temperature

Aloe vera grows well in environments with temperatures between 18°C ​​and 24°C (65°F and 75°F). It is important to avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F), as this can damage it.

2. Humidity levels

Aloe vera prefers a dry environment, so it adapts well to most indoor conditions. If you live in a particularly humid area, make sure the plant has good air circulation to prevent the leaves from staying wet.

Step 6: Fertilizing aloe vera

1. Use a mild fertilizer

Aloe vera does not require heavy fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once or twice a year during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer for indoor plants or one designed for succulents, at half the recommended concentration.

2. Avoid over-fertilizing

Excessive fertilizer can harm aloe vera, which can lead to weak growth or root damage. If you’re unsure whether you should fertilize, it’s best not to, as aloe vera is a slow-growing plant that doesn’t need much additional nutrition.

Step 7: Pruning and transplanting aloe vera

1. Remove dead or damaged leaves

To maintain the health of your aloe vera, trim off any dead or damaged leaves. Use clean, sharp pruning shears or secateurs to make a clean cut at the base of the leaf. Regular pruning will encourage new plant growth and keep the plant looking fresh.

2. Transplant when necessary

Aloe vera does not need to be repotted frequently, but it should be moved to a larger pot every 2 to 3 years if it outgrows its current container. When repotting, follow the same steps as for planting, using a fresh soil mix to prevent root congestion.

Step 8: Propagating Aloe Vera

1. Look for ramifications

Aloe vera often produces small shoots or “pups” at the base of the plant. These can be separated and planted in their own pots to grow new aloe vera plants.

2. Separate the puppies

Wait until the shoots are 5-7.5cm tall and have their own roots. Carefully separate them from the mother plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Plant them in small pots with the same well-draining soil mix and follow the same care instructions.