Aloe vera - the easy-care ornamental and medicinal plant

Aloe vera - the easy-care ornamental and medicinal plant

Aloes grow quite quickly in good conditions. They thrive best on the south window, in the winter garden or in the greenhouse. Most aloe species need a bright and warm location. In any case, it is worth giving the aloe some plant care. Not only is it a decorative-looking green plant, it can also provide relief for skin injuries or digestive problems.

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Aloe has appeared in German pharmacopoeias since the 12th century. Even in ancient times, the Romans and Egyptians used aloe as a medicinal plant against various diseases of the internal organs. Aloe vera was used by our ancestors all over the world to care for the skin and to treat burns and other wounds.

How often should aloe vera be watered?

Aloe plants that grow in nature have to cope with the longer dry periods. Its fleshy, thick leaves can store enough water to survive the dry periods without damage. Only the young plants, which are not yet able to store much water in their leaves, are dependent on regular watering.

The potted aloes that spend the summer outdoors should be watered directly onto the substrate from below about twice a week. When the aloes have moved to their winter quarters, the addition of water can be reduced to a minimum. The aloes don't like waterlogging, so a good drainage layer must be provided in the pot!

Is fertilization necessary?

In summer the aloes can use an occasional fertilizer (every 2-4 weeks) of universal or special fertilizer for succulents. After repotting in fresh soil and in winter, especially in a cool location (approx. 10-15 ° C), fertilizing should be stopped.

When is aloe vera repotted?

The fast-growing aloes should be repotted regularly (about every two years) in a larger container. This increases the space required by an aloe. If possible, this should be considered when purchasing the plant. If you do not water the aloe for a long time before repotting, the root ball can be removed more easily from the pot.

Does aloe vera have to be cut?

In order to keep the plant in shape and to influence its growth in the long term, the side shoots should be removed. If necessary, always cut off the outermost leaves first. To do this, carefully cut off the sheet at the base with a sharp knife. The wound should be kept as small as possible. Possibly. just scratch the sheet and then carefully twist off.

Is aloe vera at risk from pests and diseases?

Aloe vera is not very susceptible to disease. However, the mistakes in care can lead to the plants being inhibited in their growth or being attacked by pests such as woolly and scale insects. In the event of a pest infestation, rinsing the leaves with cold water and, if necessary, treating the affected areas with alcohol can help.

The common causes of deficiency symptoms and pest infestation are:

  • lack of light,
  • permanent waterlogging,
  • Over-fertilization or lack of nutrients

Brown or dried up leaf tips, on the other hand, are a natural phenomenon and not a sign of disease or lack of care. It is the same with the reddish discoloration of the leaves. This comes from strong sunlight and does not harm the plants.

Is aloe vera hardy?

Aloe vera is sensitive to frost. It can thrive well in summer and winter at normal room temperature and dry heating air. If your aloe has spent the summer outdoors, it should be brought back indoors by September at the latest. It is not possible to overwinter aloe vera outside.

Tips & Tricks

You can store the leaves cut from the plant in the vegetable drawer of your fridge for several days.