ALOE VERA

Succulents are plants that are thickened, fleshy and engorged, allowing the plant to retain water in arid areas.  Aloe Vera is a succulent that can be grown indoors as a house plant, or in temperate zones as an outdoor perennial.  Favorable growing conditions include plenty of light, but limited direct sun.  The leaves may tend to droop when placed in a low light setting.

Aloe vera is grown by many for the gel in the leaves.  It can be used in desserts, yogurt, and beverages.  It is also grown for medicinal purposes.  Its soothing, moisturizing and cooling properties are often used to treat superficial burns and sunburn.  The plants’ gel treats the burn and provides some pain relief.  It can also be used during outbreaks of acne, many over the counter acne medications list aloe as an ingredient.

Its best-growing conditions include dry conditions and full sun to very bright indirect light; this plant needs bright light in order to flower. When placed in front of a window, rotate periodically to ensure that all sides of the plant receive adequate light.   It is best planted in a cactus potting soil or typical potting soil with perlite or sand added.  Allow the soil to completely dry between waterings. The pot used should also have adequate drainage provided.  Water less frequently in the winter months.

Periodically check to see that the plants’ roots are not becoming root-bound.  Repot plants when obvious that the roots are becoming too much for its existing pot.  Being a bit pot bound will not affect the plants’ health. Shoots can be divided from the mother plant and repotted.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Mealybugs and aphids are insects that may affect the health of your aloe plant. Diseases include scale, leaf spot, aloe rust, sooty mold.  Overwatering should be avoided, it can lead to the roots rotting.