Aloe Vera Care Tips — From One Plant Parent to Another
There are 37 types of Aloe Plants out there but Aloe Vera is one of those plants that looks cool and earns its keep — soothing burns, purifying air, and asking for almost nothing in return. Here’s what I’ve learned after years of keeping these spiky little queens alive (and occasionally killing a few along the way 😅):
☀️ Lighting — Give Her Sunshine, But Not a Tan Line
Aloe loves bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or a well-lit room works best. Too little light and she’ll start stretching out like she’s looking for snacks. Too much harsh direct sun and she’ll scorch like you forgot sunscreen at the beach.
💧 Water — When in Doubt, Don’t
This plant thrives on neglect — truly. Water only when the soil is completely dry (I mean dusty). I typically water every 3–4 weeks. In winter, I sometimes forget for 6 weeks and she’s unbothered. Overwatering is the #1 Aloe killer — the roots will rot and the leaves will turn mushy. Always water deeply and let excess flow out the drainage holes. Aloe does not like wet feet.
🌱 Soil — Fast & Fluffy
Regular potting soil is too heavy. Use cactus/succulent mix or make your own with 50% potting soil + 50% perlite/pumice/sand. The goal is to let water run through like gossip at a family BBQ — quickly.
🌡️ Temperature — Warm Is Her Love Language
Ideal temp is 55–80°F. Bring indoors if temps drop below 50°F. Aloe will not tolerate frost — she’ll go from queen to brown mush overnight.
🍽️ Feeding — Keep It Light
Feed once in spring or summer with a gentle cactus fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Honestly… I’ve gone whole years without feeding and mine are still living their best lives.
👶 Propagation — Babies Everywhere
Once mature, Aloe will send out little pups (plant babies). When they’re 3–4 inches tall, you can separate them from mom and pot them up individually as gifts — or grow your Aloe empire. Pro tip: let pups dry for a day before repotting to prevent root rot.
Some benefit of Aloe Vera
Natural First-Aid Kit
Snap a leaf and use the gel inside to soothe minor burns, sunburns, cuts, bug bites, and skin irritation. It’s anti-inflammatory, cooling, and hydrating — plant-powered skincare on standby.
Air Purifier
Like snake plants, Aloe Vera helps filter indoor air — absorbing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde that come from household cleaners, paints, and plastics.
Oxygen Booster
Aloe releases oxygen at night, making it a nice companion in bedrooms to help improve air quality while you sleep.
Improves Indoor Humidity
Gently releases moisture into dry indoor air — which can help with dry skin, scratchy throats, and airborne allergens.
Low Maintenance
Thrives on neglect — needs little water, tolerates some forgetfulness, and grows happily indoors when given bright light.
Stylish & Functional
With its sculptural, spiky leaves, Aloe Vera adds a modern, fresh, desert-chic look to any room — and actually earns its countertop space.