The warmth-loving aloe vera does not tolerate frost and is therefore cultivated as a houseplant in Germany. The easy-care aloe vera is cultivated on large areas in many tropical and subtropical regions for the cosmetics industry.

Aloe vera needs a lot of light, even as a houseplant

Aloe vera that grows in nature thrives best in a bright to full sun with ambient temperatures of around 22° Celsius and occasional heavy rainfall. It is grown commercially in many tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Central America, the Canary Islands and the West Indies.

In Germany, the real aloe as a houseplant is very popular again. The trend is not new. Even our grandmothers knew about their healing and cosmetic uses. The aloe can spend the summer in the garden or on the balcony. In winter, however, it has to go back into the warmth, whereby hibernation at 10-15° Celsius has an optimal effect on flowering. Otherwise, aloe vera is an extremely easy-care plant.

Bright location is important

Aloe vera grows in full sun in the countries of origin and cultivation. The plants turn brown - especially after the winter - and the tips dry up. This is a natural reaction to strong sunlight. In any case, you should slowly get your room aloe used to the sun. If you want a green plant, the location should be as bright as possible, but not in the blazing sun.

Aloe requires well drained soil

Aloe likes sandy soil because it drains water well. Moist, heavy soil should be avoided, as the plant does not tolerate waterlogging:

  • a mixture of indoor plant soil and sand is most suitable,
  • possibly some peat can be added,
  • It is important to have a good drainage layer on the bottom of the pot, which allows excess water to drain away.

Watering is only done when the substrate in the pot has dried as much as possible. In summer you can water more often. Watering should be kept to a minimum during hibernation.

Repotting instead of fertilizing

Real aloe needs practically no fertilizer. You will do your aloe vera a favor if you repot the fast-growing plant every few years. Always use some fresh succulent soil. This will give your aloe a good start after the stressful "move".

tips and tricks

Particularly large specimens of aloe vera can be admired in the succulent houses of most botanical gardens in Germany.

Category:

Indoor plants