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Aloe Vera Indoor Houseplant Guide

Plant care made simple

Aloe Vera

Everything your plant needs, in one easy guide. Start with the soil—not the calendar—when deciding whether to water.

Aloe Vera

Meet your plant

Aloe Vera

Use the essentials below for everyday care, then follow the first-week steps after delivery.

  • Aloe Vera
  • Medicine Plant

The four essentials

Care at a glance

Use these basics for everyday care, then see the full guidance below.

Light

Aloe Vera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can cause its leaves to turn brown.

Water

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue with Aloe Vera.

Humidity & temperature

Aloe Vera prefers warmer temperatures between 55°F and 80°F (13°C to 27°C) and low humidity. Avoid placing it in drafty areas or near heating and cooling vents.

Pet safety

Aloe Vera is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Place your plant in an area inaccessible to pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Everyday care

How to help it thrive

Follow the plant-specific guidance below and adjust gradually as you learn how quickly the soil dries in your home.

Light

Aloe Vera thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can cause its leaves to turn brown. A south or west-facing window is ideal.

Water

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue with Aloe Vera.

Humidity & temperature

Aloe Vera prefers warmer temperatures between 55°F and 80°F (13°C to 27°C) and low humidity. Avoid placing it in drafty areas or near heating and cooling vents.

Feeding

Fertilize sparingly, using a diluted balanced fertilizer once in the spring and once in the summer. Excessive feeding can harm the plant.

Repotting

Repot Aloe Vera when it is root-bound or the pot is crowded with pups. Choose a well-draining potting mix and a pot with drainage holes to prevent water buildup.

Propagation

Aloe Vera can be easily propagated by removing pups (baby plants) from the mother plant and potting them separately. Ensure pups have developed roots before potting.

A good spot for your Aloe Vera

Not only does Aloe Vera add a touch of greenery to your space, but it also has healing properties. Its gel is great for soothing burns and skin irritations. Place it in a kitchen or living room for easy access and aesthetic appeal.

After delivery

Help your plant settle in

A little travel stress is normal. Keep the first few days simple.

1

Unpack gently

Remove the natural wood strands from the soil surface. They kept soil in place during shipping.

2

Check before watering

Feel the soil first and follow the plant-specific watering cue above. Do not water only because it arrived.

3

Let it rest

Place it in the recommended light and keep it away from heating vents, cold drafts and harsh direct sun.

4

Keep its nursery pot

If you chose an upgraded pot, leave the plant in its nursery pot inside it. Decorative moss may stay or be removed.

Start here

Quick troubleshooting

Check the simplest causes first and change one part of the routine at a time.

  • Overwatering: Signs include soft, mushy leaves. Allow the soil to dry out and reduce watering frequency.
  • Underwatering: Leaves will appear shriveled or dried out. Increase watering slightly during the growing season.
  • Too Much Sun: Brown or sunburnt leaves indicate excessive direct sunlight. Move to a location with indirect light.

When in doubt: wait, check the soil again and compare what you see with the care guidance above.

Pass it on

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