GARDEN IDEAS
Growing Aloe Vera
(from 20 Occasional Herbs - see below)
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Historical evidence suggests that aloe vera originated in Africa although it is now grown in many countries. In moderate climates, aloe is often grown as a houseplant and thrives well in containers. It will grow happily in humid conditions as long as the roots aren’t in water. The plant will tolerate very high temperatures as well as very cold air temperatures. But low ground temperatures will damage the roots.
The use of aloe vera in medicinal preparations has been recorded for more than 2000 years. The sap from the leaf of the plant is a thick gel and it is this gel that holds all the healing ingredients aloe vera is becoming more and more well-known for. There is a wide commercial trade in aloe vera and it has been proved to cure many minor ailments as well as some chronic conditions.
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The plant is 95% water and is therefore frost tender. It is normally grown indoors as a houseplant in the UK and similar climates. In warmer climates aloe vera can be grown outside in full sun or very light shade.
Aloe vera (House Plant)
at Thompson and Morgan (UK)
Known for its medicinal qualities.
Ideal for a bright sunny spot.
Easy to grow succulent.
The quickest way to propagate aloe is to take the offsets from the main plant and re-pot immediately using new compost and a container that can be positioned in the sun. Offsets should be 3 or 4 inches (8-10cm) high and removed carefully so as to minimize damage to the mother plant.
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All pots and containers must be very well-drained. Add extra sand or gravel to compost before planting. Water immediately after planting and then let the soil dry out almost completely before watering again.
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During the summer months, aloe vera should be watered well and then left to dry out completely before watering again. During the winter months, the plant rests and requires very little water. When the soil is completely dry add a cup or two of water. The plant is a succulent so holds a lot of water within the leaves and roots, and will rot if watered too much and too often.
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I have a lot of success with aloe vera plants and am always giving them away to friends and family - whether they want them or not :-) It's a handy plant to grow at home - the sap from inside the leaves soothes and helps to heal minor burns, cuts and scrapes. A must-have in the kitchen!
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