Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is also known by the commom name of "burn plant" or "healing plant". They are commonly grown in kitchen gardens to help with minor burns, minor cuts, scrapes, insect bites and other skin problems. Aleos are easy to care, they need lots of sun, warmth and minimal amount of watering. They have bright green stalks that grow up 1 foot long and up to 2 inches thick and usually have creamy stripes or dots along the leaves.

Soil: Well drained, sandy potting mixture.

**I mixed mine with 1/2 of potting soil, the other 1/2fill with sand, peat moss and perlite.

Light: Aloe doew best in light or dappled shade on the porch or on the windowsill in the kitchen. Aloe is even reliable in dry shade. They require bright light for the winter months, in either a sunny window or under fluorescent light. Outside for the summer months, few hours direct sun light in the morning, and place them under the shade in the afternoon will make them happy. If dark brown or orange spot shown on the leave is a sign of sunburn, they mignt need to have some shade for protection.

**Aloe is especially sensitive to sunlight and if transitioned outsidetoo soon, it will easilly burn.

Water: Do not over-water your plant. Give it a good watering every couple of weeks. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Water thoroughly about once a week during summer; once a month in winter, or when the stalks looks shriveled.

Temperature: These plants are not cold hardy, they need to be kept indoors int he winter.

 

** Aloe Vera plants can be toxic if ingested by small animals. If you have pet, be cautious and aware of plant placement.