Aloe vera is more than just a handy summer staple for those days you forget SPF. Used since ancient times for wounds and now a popular beauty-product ingredient, aloe vera is one of the most versatile plants you can grow.
As a succulent, aloe vera is hardy and drought-proof, so it doesn’t need as much attention as other houseplants. This low-maintenance shrub can be grown indoors or out and can reach up to half a metre in height in ideal conditions.
Whether you want to use it for sunburn, acne, rosacea, or insect bites, aloe vera is a cute, helpful plant to have on hand. Here’s everything you need to know.
How to grow aloe vera
You can plant aloe vera year-round, and it will survive nearly all conditions, though it thrives in a tropical environment. Once planted, water it well to settle the soil. For the best results, be careful with the centre growing point as aloe vera grows from the middle out.
Climate
Prefers warm, dry conditions, but will grow in cold temperate, warm temperate and arid/semi-arid conditions, provided there are no frosts.
Soil
Requires a soil with excellent drainage.
Position
Sunny. Plant in full sun outdoors and, indoors, in a spot with lots of light. They can tolerate part shade too.
Fertiliser
Occasional feed with a balanced, controlled-release fertiliser. Once a year is fine, but feed just before the main growing season.
Water
Overwatering is the main cause of aloe vera death. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings, and water less in winter. If you live in a wet area, consider growing your aloe vera in a raised garden bed and add some gravel to improve drainage.
Growing in a pot
You can grow aloe vera in a pot or container. Use a cacti or succulent potting mix to ensure good drainage and keep it in a bright part of the house.
Toxic to pets
Keep this in mind if you have pets. Aloe vera is toxic to cats and dogs. If your cat or dog chews or swallows parts of the aloe vera plant, contact your local vet straight away.
How to grow from cuttings
The simplest way to propagate aloe vera is from the small plants that form at its base, known as ‘pups’. Separate the pups from the main plant and pot them in a container with cacti and succulent potting mix, or in a well-drained, sunny spot in the garden.
How to keep aloe vera pest-free
Luckily, aloe vera has very few problems but it’s prone to the odd insect attack. Small sap-sucking insects like scale and aphids are the main culprits, so keep an eye out for them. Mealybugs can also be a problem. If you spot any, try methylated spirits on a cotton bud or, as a gentler first option, horticultural oil.
Benefits of aloe vera on skin
Aloe vera has soothing, cooling properties and is commonly used to treat minor skin concerns. Because it is moisturising, many people use it to treat dry skin. That said, the yellow sap (aloin) under the skin is a laxative and irritant; people apply only the clear inner gel to the skin. Make sure you patch test first.
Some also say it can treat acne, as aloe vera is less irritating to the skin than traditional treatments. A small 2014 study found that a cream combining acne medication with aloe vera gel was significantly more effective than acne treatments on their own.
It may be best to avoid using aloe vera on more severe issues and check first with a doctor if you are ever unsure.
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