Aloe vera, also known as aloe vera, is one of those plants that not only looks great at home, but also takes advantage of its multiple medicinal, cosmetic and decorative uses to improve our daily lives. Thanks to its inner gel, known for its benefits for the skin and overall health, aloe vera has earned a privileged place in homes and gardens around the world.
In this article I explain to you step by step How to plant, propagate, and care for aloe vera so that it grows strong and healthy, whether you grow it in a pot or in the ground. I'll also share some secrets and recommendations based on the experience of expert growers and traditional tips that really work.
Why plant aloe vera at home?
Having an aloe vera plant at home goes far beyond a simple aesthetic issue. aloe vera It offers a variety of benefits that make it a must-have for many homes. Its properties include its healing and antiseptic effects, ideal for treating minor burns, cuts, or minor irritations. It's also useful for relieving acne, thanks to its antibacterial properties. Growing it is simple and its care doesn't require much time, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without complications.
When and where to plant aloe vera
One of the first doubts is usually what is the most suitable place to plant aloe vera and what time of year is best to do it. Ideally, especially if you live in temperate zones, you should choose a space with good natural light, preferably where the plant can receive direct sunlight for several hours a day. between 8 and 10 hours of sun exposureHowever, aloe vera prefers dry environments, well-aerated soil, and a distance from excessive humidity and cold.
As to best time to plant aloe vera, the best thing to do is to do it in spring or fallThese seasons offer mild temperatures that facilitate rooting and the development of new shoots or "suckers." However, if the climate is stable and there's no risk of frost or extreme heat, it can be adapted to other times of the year.
Ideal soil and pot types
Aloe vera is not particularly demanding, but it does appreciate light, porous, and well-drained soilsIf you're going to plant it in a pot, choose clay or terracotta containers, as these materials promote transpiration and prevent excess moisture, which the plant doesn't tolerate well. Make sure the pot has drainage holes and place a layer of two fingers of gravel or small stones at the base to avoid puddles.
The ideal soil should contain a portion of sand or perlite mixed with nutrient-rich garden soil. It's essential to avoid heavy or water-retentive substrates, as they can promote root rot. For fertilization, it's best to use compost or organic fertilizer instead of chemical fertilizers, which are unnecessary and can harm the plant in the long run.
Propagation methods: seeds and suckers
There are two main ways to reproduce aloe: through suckers (lateral shoots) and by seeds. Although the sexual method (by seeds) is possible, the truth is that Propagation by suckers is much faster, safer and more accessible., since the seeds are difficult to find and their germination can be unreliable under home conditions.
Suckers appear near the base of a healthy adult plant. A mature aloe vera plant can produce between 20 and 30 suckers per year, which take advantage of the soil's nutrients and sunlight to grow attached to the parent plant. Separating them at the right time is essential to ensure each new aloe develops strong roots and leaves.
How to separate and plant aloe vera seedlings
Removing and planting aloe vera shoots is not a mystery, but it is advisable to follow some guidelines to maximize the chances of success:
- Choose well-formed offspring: Wait until the lateral shoots are at least 10 to 15 cm tall and have their own roots. The more developed they are, the easier it will be for them to adapt to the new environment.
- Gently extract: Remove the mother plant from the soil and carefully remove the suckers, taking care not to damage the fine roots. If the roots break slightly, it's okay—aloe verbena is very resilient and usually regenerates without problems—but the less damage they suffer, the better.
- Let the wounds dry: Allow the cuttings at the base of the seedlings to dry for a couple of days in a clean, shaded area before planting. This step is key to avoiding fungal or bacterial infections.
- Prepare the pot or soil: Place the potting mix in the final pot, add the drainage layer, and make a hole to insert the offspring. Make sure the bottom is covered with soil up to the beginning of the leaves, but don't completely bury the base.
- First watering: After planting the seedling, water lightly just to moisten the soil, but without soaking it.
Post-transplant care
La Newly planted aloe vera needs a period of adaptationFor the first few weeks, place it in a location with good natural light but where it receives direct sunlight only for a few hours a day or is partially shaded. If you transplant it in midsummer, protect the young shoots from the hottest hours of sunlight.
When you notice the plant beginning to sprout new leaves, it will be a sign that the roots have taken hold of the substrate and you can gradually accustom it to full sun exposure.
- Water sporadically, every 15 to 20 daysBefore watering again, check that the soil is completely dry, as excess water is aloe vera's main enemy.
- Avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Moistening the base of the plant will suffice.
- Don't worry if the leaves lose some turgor during the first few days—this is normal after transplanting and usually recovers quickly.
General care of mature aloe vera
Once the aloe vera plant is well established, it requires very little maintenance:
- Light and location: Whenever possible, place the plant in a sunny location. If you keep it indoors, look for a south- or east-facing window where it receives the most indirect light. Outdoors, make sure it's not exposed to frost.
- Irrigation: Aloe vera is a succulent plant and stores water in its leaves. Water it whenever you notice the substrate is dry, as excess water can damage it. To learn more about its care, visit this site. article on aloe vera.
- Fertilization: A little organic compost in spring can help, although if the substrate is rich you won't need to add anything extra.
- Pruning: Remove old, yellowed, or damaged leaves to encourage the growth of new, healthy leaves and keep the plant pest-free.
Common problems and how to solve them
Aloe vera is hardy, but it can be affected by some problems, especially if growing conditions aren't ideal. Here are the most common problems and their solutions:
- Soft and drooping leaves: It could be due to overwatering or lack of light. Let the substrate dry and move the plant to a sunnier location.
- Brown tips: It's usually a result of extreme dryness or lack of water. Lightly mist the leaves in very dry environments and make sure to water as soon as the soil is dry, without overdoing it.
- Black or soft spots: They indicate fungal rot caused by overwatering. Remove damaged parts and be sure to reduce watering frequency.
- Lack of growth: It could be due to poor substrate or a pot that's too small. Repot to a larger container and add new, nutrient-rich soil.
When to harvest and how to use aloe vera
Once the plant has reached a good size (about a year from planting), you can cut outer leaves as neededAlways do this from the base, using a clean, sharp blade to avoid damaging the rest of the plant. The gel from the leaves can be used in homemade cosmetics, skin care, or even in some food preparations, as long as you make sure to remove the yellow substance (aloin), which can be irritating.
Where can I get aloe vera plants or seedlings?
If you want to start your crop, the easiest thing is ask someone close to you for a sucker from your own adult plant. You can also look for them in specialized nurseries or reliable online stores. It is important to make sure that the offspring are of quality and come from pure varieties (e.g. Aloe vera Barbadensis Miller), especially if you are interested in taking advantage of the medicinal properties of aloe vera.
In the case of commercial crops, there are companies specialized in the sale of organic and biodynamic aloe vera intended for professional farmers. If you want to grow on a large scale, it's best to turn to trusted suppliers who guarantee the health and genetic purity of the plants.
Professional tips for successful cultivation
- Avoid transplanting during periods of intense cold or extreme heat: The ideal time to do this is between late winter and autumn.
- Observe the rhythm of your plants: Every aloe vera plant is different. Some plants grow very quickly, while others take longer to develop. Be patient and don't over-care.
- Keep the area free of weeds, as they compete for space and nutrients.
- Promote biodiversity in your gardenAloe vera coexists well with other species, as long as they do not compete excessively for space or water.
After going through the entire process, from choosing the right location and season to choosing the right substrate and the most recommended propagation techniques, planting aloe vera proves to be a simple task, but with little tricks that make all the difference. By following these tips and paying attention to your plant's environment and needs, you can ensure that your aloe vera not only thrives and decorates your home, but also offers you its full potential for health and well-being year after year.