What Type of Soil is Best for Aloe Vera
This topic introduces the best soil for growing aloe vera and the plant's soil requirements. Let's continue with the introduction by our website's editor.
The soil matrix for planting aloe vera should not be too acidic or alkaline, with a pH value ideally between 6.8 and 7.0. Aloe vera leaves are usually plump, and the plant contains a high water content. It is drought-resistant and enjoys sunlight, making it an easy-to-care-for ornamental plant. Below, I'll explain the reasons in detail and discuss the suitable soil for planting aloe vera.
I. Suitable for Neutral Soil
1. Soil Acidity and Alkalinity
Soil with a pH below 5.5 is strongly acidic, and soil with a pH above 7.5 is strongly alkaline. The formation of soil acidity and alkalinity is related to climate, and it affects the decomposition of organic matter and the availability of trace elements. For example, phosphorus is more available in neutral soil, while acidic and alkaline soils are not conducive to plant absorption of trace elements.
2. Reasons
Aloe vera is suitable for planting in soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Even though aloe vera can survive in slightly acidic or slightly alkaline soil, it will hinder its growth.
II. Methods to Adjust Soil Acidity and Alkalinity
If the soil acidity and alkalinity are not suitable, it is necessary to change the pot and soil in a timely manner or use some methods to adjust the pH. Soils in southern China are more acidic, while soils in the north are more alkaline. To balance the alkalinity of the soil, you can add sulfur powder, acidic humus fertilizers, composted soil, or mature organic fertilizers to the soil, or pour in a solution of ferrous sulfate. To balance soil acidity, you can add wood ash and lime.
III. Suitable Planting Substrate
1. Soil Requirements
Aloe vera prefers well-drained and ventilated soil that also retains nutrients and moisture. Especially for vigorous adult plants, they grow well in sandy soil, while seedlings need a mix of clay and sand in a 1:1 ratio, which makes the soil loose and breathable while also providing some fertility.
Excess clay in the soil can cause poor drainage, or too much sand can lead to a lack of nutrients and rapid water loss, which is not conducive to the growth of aloe vera plants. The planting substrate can be mixed with garden soil, leaf mold, wood ash, sawdust, and river sand.
2. Suitable Soil Mixing Scheme
A mixture of leaf mold, perlite, peat soil, and fine sand in a ratio of 3:1:4:2 can be used as the planting substrate. Alternatively, a mixture of garden soil, humus soil, and river sand in a ratio of 4:4:2 can also be used.
The above shares a comprehensive introduction to the best soil for growing aloe vera and the plant's soil requirements, hoping to provide green plant enthusiasts with some relevant knowledge about green plants.