Soil for Aloe Vera Plants

In Nature

• Aloe vera plants in the wild tend to cluster on slopes and hillsides, particularly areas where rocky soil allows them to establish a firm grip on the earth. They are semi sub-tropical plants that will not tolerate very wet locations, or places where their roots are standing in water for any period of time.

Mixing Soil

• Mimicking the aloe’s natural habitat is a good way to begin preparing a soil mixture for these plants. The pot should first be lined with a few inches of pebbles or gravel to help facilitate drainage. The soil mix itself should be comprised of a good quality potting soil amended with either sand, vermiculite, or a combination of these to allow water to quickly run through the pot.

Store-Bought Potting Mixes

• Another option for potted aloe vera plants is commercially available cactus soil. These mixes are specially formulated to drain very quickly without a lot of water retention, and many contain slow release fertilizers that are optimal for cacti and succulents which go through long dormant periods over winter.

Watering

• Aloe plants do not require much water, and are more likely to die from drowning than lack of water. Because of this, the soil can be a very good indicator of when it is time to water, and how much water should be given. Stick a finger 2-3 inches into the soil, and check for moisture. Aloes need their soil to be allowed to go dry between watering, so onl y when you are certain the plant has had a few days of dry soil should you water the plant. During summer in arid climates, the soil should be soaked and allowed to completely drain dry for a few weeks. In more temperate regions, a cup or two of water is all the plant will need at watering time.

Replanting

• Choosing a new home for your aloe requires careful consideration. Move the plants right before you plan to water, and choose pots with large drainage holes. Because aloe grow such heavy leaves and need to be planted in light soil, it is also wise to choose heavy pots to avoid tipping. Add plenty of gravel to the base, and water once transplanted.