How do I care for my new Aloe vera?
Q I’ve bought myself an Aloe vera plant. What’s the best way to look after it? Vivienne Lee, Poole, Dorset
A Aloe vera is an attractive succulent. It makes a great houseplant for almost any well-lit room in the house, other than humid bathrooms. Its origins are unknown, although it may be native to the Arabian Peninsula. Today it’s widespread throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Well-grown specimens can exceed 50cm (1ft 6in) in height and spread and may produce flower spikes to 90cm (3ft), although it’s usually grown for its evergreen, fleshy leaves. Plants are easily grown in a well-drained cactus and succulent potting compost that’s available from garden centres or one made up of John Innes No 3 with at least 30 per cent added grit to create perfect drainage. They do best in a temperature range of 13-27C (55-80F). Succulents are adapted to seasonally dry climates and have the ability to store water in their leaves and stems. During April to September water every three weeks or so using tepid water, but allow the top few centimetres of compost to dry between watering. Feed once a month with a cactus fertiliser during this time. Keep watering to a minimum over winter and don’t feed. Provide good indirect light at all times but keep plants out of scorching sun. Repot every few years as plants become root-bound.
Aloe vera can be propagated in late spring from offsets about 5cm (2in) long, severed from the main plant using a sharp blade.
Leave the offset for a few days in good indirect light for the wound to callus over before inserting into pots of cactus compost. Start watering after a week but keep pots slightly on the dry side to avoid fungal rot.
The only significant pest is mealybug, which is evident by accumulations of white, waxy fluff in the leaf joints. Plants, however, are prone to various root and stem rots if grown in poorly drained compost or simply overwatered. Plants in scorching sunlight may also develop corky scab. Aloe vera leaves shouldn’t be ingested by humans or pets.