How to cultivate Aloe Vera
Are you curious about how to cultivate Aloe Vera and the methods and techniques for growing it? Let's explore this topic together.
Everyone likes to grow green plants that are both beautiful and beneficial, such as Aloe Vera. I have Aloe Vera at home, and when I get bitten by mosquitoes in the summer, I apply some of its gel to the affected area, which quickly relieves the itching and swelling. It's an essential green plant to have at home. Aloe Vera has many amazing functions, which gardeners can experience, and it can also be eaten after processing. However, be careful not to consume it randomly, as it can be toxic!
As autumn approaches and the weather gets colder, many gardeners notice that their Aloe Vera doesn't seem to grow much. This is actually due to the temperature drop. People familiar with Aloe Vera know that it is very sensitive to cold, and in low temperatures, it can easily freeze and even die. Therefore, it's important to take measures to keep it warm.
Besides that, Aloe Vera needs other suitable conditions.
1. Watering
Aloe Vera has thick leaves that can store water, so it can retain moisture after watering. Therefore, watering doesn't need to be too frequent.
Moderate drought is better for Aloe Vera. Thus, control the watering frequency. Water once a week, and in winter, once every two weeks.
Note: Excessive watering can cause root rot.
2. Light
Aloe Vera loves light. Providing sufficient light every day can help it grow better. Placing it on the balcony is a good choice. However, in the summer when the sun is intense, avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunburn. Otherwise, the leaf edges will turn yellow, the stem will become soft, and the overall growth trend will decline. If this happens, move the Aloe Vera to a place with less intense light, ensure proper ventilation, and take good care of it, and it will soon recover.
How to cultivate Aloe Vera
You can also place it outdoors with plenty of light. In winter, it's best to keep it indoors since Aloe Vera is sensitive to low temperatures. It can grow normally above 5 degrees Celsius, but lower temperatures can cause frost damage.
3. Soil
Aloe Vera prefers nutrient-rich and well-draining soil. You can add broken tiles, sand, and wood chips to the garden soil to provide enough space for the roots to breathe, which will help the plant grow well. Besides soil, Aloe Vera also has high requirements for the pot. Plastic pots have poor breathability and are not recommended.
Compact soil can prevent the roots from breathing, causing the leaves to lose moisture and become wilted. Therefore, it's important to change pots and soil in time to ensure good soil drainage. The yellow parts can be cut off with scissors.
4. Fertilizing
Aloe Vera likes fertilizer. If you notice it growing slowly, it might be due to a lack of fertilization. With adequate nutrition, Aloe Vera will grow well. Aloe Vera needs nutrients for growth. Fertilize once every two weeks without being too frequent, as too much can overwhelm the roots and cause them to rot.
Aloe Vera can also bloom, but most people don't see it because it takes time to mature. It may bloom after two or three years, and the flowers are orange-red. Aloe Vera has a very long lifespan and can be maintained for decades if well cared for. It is also easy to propagate, grows quickly, and is not easy to kill, making it suitable for beginners.
Some people's Aloe Vera leaves are plump, while others are thin, almost like they are malnourished. This may be due to the variety or differences in care methods, because Aloe Vera needs fertilizer, and with sufficient nutrients, it will grow better.
The above is [GreenPlantEnthusiast.com]'s explanation of how to cultivate Aloe Vera and the methods and techniques for growing it, hoping to bring a little help to your life!