How to Grow and Care for the Aloe Vera Plant
The aloe vera plant is well known for its medicinal value and grows naturally mostly in Africa and some other tropical locations. They range in size from a couple of inches to over two feet in diameter. They make excellent house plants when given sufficient sunlight. They are succulent plants and will die if exposed to frost. Here, you will learn how to grow and care for aloe vera plants.
Aloe vera plants have become very popular and are available from most nurseries. Unless they can be planted in the ground in tropical climates, they should be grown in the flower pot in which they are purchased. Aloe vera plants should be planted or placed in direct sunlight and watered daily. If potted, it can be moved outdoors during the summer but when the weather gets cool, it should be placed indoors near a window that gets direct sunlight. Select a wide planter to accommodate the broad root system and make sure to soak the soil with water and then to let it go dry before watering again. Be sure to fertilize annually with half strength bloom fertilizer and use a potting mix with coarse sand added. The pot should have a drain hole so that excess water can run off.
Aloe vera plants can be reproduced from seeds or from offshoots that grow at the base of the plant. Wait until they get to be about two inches in length before cutting and planting them. Aloe gel has proven medicinal properties and is used in medicines and cosmetics. If you need to treat a burn or itchy dry skin, simply cut off a lower leaf, slice it open, extract the gel and rub it on your skin. It should produce an immediate result. With just a little bit of conscientious attention, you can have a plant that will give life to your room and offer you comfort when you are hurt!
