Aloe vera comes from the arid regions of Africa and loves the sun. Thanks to its fleshy leaves, in which it stores water, aloe can survive for long periods without rain. In this country, it is particularly popular as an easy-care houseplant.
The aloe vera can and should be outside in the summer, but must be brought inside in the winter
The home of the aloe is assumed to be in South Africa. Many different aloe species now grow in Africa, Asia, Central America and the Mediterranean region. Because of its skin-caring and regenerating substances, aloe vera is of interest to the cosmetics industry. Therefore the plant is cultivated on large areas in South and Central America as well as in Spain. Average temperatures of 20-25° Celsius and short, heavy rainfall are optimal for the growth of heat-loving plants.
Aloe vera or real aloe usually grows without a stem. Its 30-60 cm long, smooth, shiny leaves with thorns are arranged in a rosette. Its tubular flowers of yellow, red, or orange that appear in spring make aloe vera an attractive houseplant that
- thrives on south-facing windows, in conservatories and greenhouses,
- stores water in its thick leaves,
- frugal in maintenance.
Aloe vera can be left outside in the summer
Your aloe vera feels comfortable outside from around the beginning of June. It loves the sun and therefore needs a correspondingly warm and sunny garden spot. In full sun, their leaves sometimes turn brown. This phenomenon is normal and serves to protect against the sun. Aloe vera should be watered vigorously from time to time while it is outdoors. It does not like waterlogging, so you should always make sure that excess water can drain off. During this time you can also fertilize sparingly with succulent fertilizer.
Bring aloe vera indoors in winter
Aloe vera should be back in the house by September at the latest. It does not tolerate frost, even temperatures below 5° Celsius are dangerous for it. In the house she likes to be cooler (10-15° Celsius) during the cold season. In this case, watering should be reduced to a minimum and fertilizing should be stopped altogether.
tips and tricks
You can encourage flowering by overwintering your aloe vera at temperatures of around 10° Celsius.