Aloe Vera
Plant of the Week June 26, 2023
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
By Timothy Newcomb, Anoka County Master Gardener
Aloe vera is a perennial native to Southern Africa and grows best in arid climates in Zones 8-11. This is about as distant from the climate of Minnesota as one can get. However, the conditions inside a house are just right to keep this plant growing all year. This plant thrives on neglect and is a good starter plant for people with a so-called "brown thumb".
Aloe has long been used for its medicinal properties and in food and beverages. Many people use it in desserts and yogurts or use the gel inside as a topical ointment for soothing skin.
Growing aloe inside requires a pot slightly bigger than the plant. Fill the pot with succulent potting mix or other well-draining soil mixture. It can be grown from seed but is usually propagated from the pups of an existing plant. When first planted, ensure it gets a good dose of water. Then, forget about watering until the dirt is completely dry. Place your pot in a sunny or well-lit window and watch it grow.
The most common problem with aloe vera is over-watering, which can cause fungal spots and root rot. If you notice the plant is having trouble, stop watering it and let it be. The plant can generally heal itself if you give it enough time to dry.
One of the fun things about aloe is that, after a while, it will make pups through suckers that come from its roots. Break or cut these off of the mother plant by digging up the whole plant, cutting pups away, and repotting them both. As the plant grows and makes more of itself, re-pot it to ensure proper airflow and good soil.
