Aloe vera is one of the most popular houseplants out there, and it's easy to see why. Not only is it low-maintenance and attractive, but its clear gel also provides health and beauty remedies.
To get the most out of this beloved houseplant, mastering your aloe vera care technique is key.
According to one gardening enthusiast, changing your watering approach during the summer is essential.
Nina (who goes by @ninatheplantmum on TikTok), took to the sharing platform with some top tips for aloe vera enthusiasts.
For a "thick and juicy" plant, the expert told owners to consider their watering technique and plant placement.
"Aloe vera is kind of like a dessert plant. In the winter, I'd say water it every two weeks. In the summer, water once a week," she advised.
"Basically, you want the soil to dry out, and then you want to flood her with water."
As for light, aloe vera benefits from brightness, but "doesn't want to be in the sun all day", as its leaves will burn.
'You want the soil to dry out, and then you want to flood her with water'
TikTok/@ninatheplantmum / GETTY IMAGES
Nina admitted that she hasn't always been careful about her aloe vera placement, revealing that she kept one in her fireplace - "one of the worst places she could be".
Another houseplant enthusiast shared that she had made the same mistake, commenting: "I've been wondering why my aloe vera plants keep dying. I've been putting them near my fireplace away from the sun."
Gardening gurus agree that aloe vera should be watered more in the summer than in the winter, and only when the top few centimetres feel dry.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
For a 'thick and juicy' aloe vera plant, consider your watering technique and placement
GETTY IMAGES
As for placement, a bright windowsill or shelf is a good spot for an aloe vera plant.
During the summer months, placing your aloe vera outside is fine as this encourages it to flower.
However, it should be brought back inside once the nights get chillier, as it thrives in warmer temperatures.
The Royal Horticultural Society also weighs in on the best ways to care for aloe vera.
Aside from watering schedule and plant placement, compost and feeding should also be considered.
Experts advised: "Most are from dry sandy areas where the soil drains freely. Use multipurpose peat-free compost mixed with 50 per cent sand and/or grit to help give them the same conditions.
"Aloes will not grow well in continuously wet compost or shade. They dislike humid atmospheres and cannot cope with freezing temperatures.
"To encourage good growth and flowering, feed once a month during the growing season (April-September), using a liquid feed. Don't feed in the winter."
For more information on how to care for your aloe vera houseplant, read GB News' deep dive.
Most Read
