Caring for an Aloe Plant

Growing Conditions

• As succulent plants, aloes grow best in hot conditions with plenty of sunshine. Most species will not tolerate temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, although a few, such as Aloe striatula, will survive frosts. Aloes thrive in fertile, well-drained soil and are vulnerable to rotting if left to sit in water-logged soil. They can be grown on an indoor windowsill that receives direct sunshine.

Watering and Fertilizing

• Water aloe plants only when the top inch of their soil has dried out completely. Water thoroughly, aiming to moisten the soil evenly. Reduce watering during the winter months when many aloe species are dormant. Make sure potted aloes drain completely after watering since aloes are vulnerable to rotting. Fertilize aloes in the spring with a liquid fertilizer high in phosphorus to encourage flowering.

Care

• Protect outdoor aloes from frost by covering them with a natural fiber covering such as a blanket. Move potted aloe plants indoors before nighttime temperatures drop below 50 degrees F. Re-pot container-grown aloes when they become top heavy or when their roots completely fill the pot.

Propagation

• Propagate aloes from the small offsets that grow next to adult plants. These can be severed from the parent plant once they have their own root system. Allow offsets to dry in the shade for several days prior to planting to prevent rotting. Plant aloes in compost formulated for cactus or standard compost mixed with 50 percent sand or perlite. Sow aloe seed on a mixture of equal parts sand and compost. Cover the seeds with a fine layer of sand and a layer of pea-sized gravel. Place the seeds in a warm, shaded spot, and keep the soil moist.

Planting

• Plant potted aloes out in the garden in late spring once the soil has warmed up and started to dry out. Plant in raised beds, on slopes or in coarse soils to make sure that they do not become water logged during the winter months.