Aloe vera incl. decorative pot terracotta grey

As soon as possible after receiving the Aloe vera, plant it in a flower pot. Choose a pot with holes in the base with a matching saucer, so that any excess water can drain away. Or use an ornamental pot in which the irrigation water from the inner pot is collected. Sprinkle a layer of hydro granules over the bottom of the pot, cover with fresh potting compost and plant the root ball of the Aloe vera at the right depth. Fill the pot with more compost and press firmly. Keep the soil just below the rim so there is room for watering. Water generously after planting and place the pot in a warm, light spot. Full sun is tolerated by this strong indoor plant. Repot only when necessary.

Aloe vera is highly resistant to drought and has moderate water needs. Keep the root ball moderately moist to dry. Rather than watering little and often, occasionally, water generously. Preferably use rain water. From spring through until August occasionally add plant food when watering. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage, as this plant does not tolerate being in soil that is too wet. Water less during the winter but avoid the root ball from drying out completely. Place Aloe vera in a cooler room during the winter. In the summer this plant is also suitable as a patio plant.

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that stores a lot of fluid in the leaves, because of this water supply the plant is drought tolerant. The leaves are grey-green and a little prickly. The sap from the leaves of this tropical succulent has medicinal properties and has been used for centuries as a home remedy. It is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. The sap soothes grazes, insect bites and sunburn. It is also used in many skin creams and other cosmetic products. Sometimes red or yellow flowers appear from the heart of the rosette.