How to grow a aloe vera plant? | What is aloe vera plant good for?

 Aloe Vera Plant

Aloes are small trees that have the amazing property of being able to heal wounds, burns, cuts, abrasions, irritations, and even scars. While many people use aloe as a way to help speed up wound healing, they actually have numerous other uses. Aloes are often associated with home remedies, but are becoming increasingly popular in the beauty industry. When purchasing an aloe vera plant, remember that not all varieties are created equal and some are much more difficult to care for than others.

How to grow aloe vera plant?

Here are some tips for how to grow an aloe vera:

Watering

 The most important thing when caring for your aloe vera is water. Unlike houseplants, which tend to grow well in dry climates, aloeveras require significant amounts of water. You should water your aloe vera regularly throughout the year, especially in the summer. However, don't overdo it. Too much water can cause the leaves to rot, and it can lead to fungus if not properly maintained.

 

Fertilizing

 Because aloeveras thrive in warm temperatures, they do not need a lot of fertilizer. However, an occasional feeding will keep them thriving. An organic fertilizer is recommended. A homemade fertilizer is great, or you can purchase a commercial fertilizer that contains aloe vera juice.

 

Pruning

 Pruning is a necessary step in maintaining your aloe vera, especially if it's been growing for a long time. New shoots emerge from the base of the plant, while older ones die off. To prune your aloe vera correctly, cut back the dead shoot at the end of each season. If you've grown your aloe vera for several years, it may take several seasons before you notice any change in its appearance.

 

 Propagation

 Most aloe species are propagated through the cutting method. Simply take a leaf blade from the center of the plant and place it into moist soil. In 2-3 weeks, roots will begin to appear. Keep in mind that if your aloe vera does not receive enough sunlight, or if it gets too hot, it won't produce viable leaves.

 

 Maintenance

 After you've taken good care of your aloe vera and it continues to flourish, it will eventually stop producing leaves. If this happens, remove the dead leaves and root and replant it elsewhere. Afterward, continue to provide regular water and fertilizer.

 

Do aloe plants need a lot of sun?

Aloe vera, like any succulent, requires lots of sunlight! If exposed to direct sunlight over extended periods of time, aloe plants can suffer severe leaf burn, or even die. Aloes should always be kept at least three feet away from the brightest sun rays, and shaded completely if possible.

 

Is aloe vera a good indoor plant?

Aloe vera is a succulent herb native to Mexico; it’s considered a wonderful houseplant for any home or office space because of its unique look, green-toned foliage, and attractive flowers. Aloe vera comes in several different varieties and colors, including white, red, pink, yellow, purple, and orange. The variety you choose is based on how well suited it is to thrive indoors. Here we take a closer look at the pros and cons of having aloe vera as a house plant.

 

Pros:

Easy To Grow

The ideal environment for aloe vera is a warm room where the temperature doesn't fluctuate much between night and day. While they require little water, aloes need about four hours of direct sunlight per day and should be kept out of direct sunlight during the hottest times of summer. In order to keep them happy, they prefer bright indirect lighting and filtered natural light. You ideally want to find a pot or planter that's deep enough to hold plenty of soil, as aloes have a deep root system that requires ample room to spread out.

 

Low Maintenance

You don't need to worry about pruning or watering your aloe vera, since these plants are low maintenance and don't require fertilizer. However, if you're looking for a houseplant that doesn't require much work at all, consider planting some succulents instead. Succulents require less attention than aloes, and their roots don't need to be fed with fertilizer.

 

Versatile Plant

Aloes make excellent houseplants, and they offer a lot of versatility. You can use them as cuttings, and they'll even bloom almost year round thanks to their hardiness. Because they bloom year after year, aloes make great gifts for family members, friends, and loved ones.

 

Cons:

Can Be Dangerous

While aloes are beautiful houseplants that bring elegance to any home, they aren't necessarily safe for children. Aloes have been known to cause skin irritation, sunburn, and burns to pets who chew or lick them, so keeping this in mind is extremely important. If you notice your child chewing on any kind of plant, talk to your pediatrician immediately to ensure their safety.

 

Not Great for Pets

Because they're not toxic, aloes aren't harmful to animals, but they may cause irritation or harm if they get into the eyes of dogs and cats. Additionally, aloes can harbor bacteria that can lead to illness, so you should never allow pets to eat them.

 

What is aloe vera plant good for?

1.     Aloe Vera is one of the best home remedies for many chronic conditions. It is a natural remedy for skin problems including sunburn, insect bites, burns, cuts, rashes, and even eczema. In addition, aloe vera may help treat dermatitis caused by allergies, psoriasis, and certain forms of arthritis. It contains various vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, B complex, C, D, E, K, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium, phosphorous, and fluoride. 

2.     Aloe Vera is also useful in treating minor infections such as cold sores and sore throat. It speeds healing time and reduces inflammation. 

3.     Aloe Vera juice can be applied directly onto open wounds and cuts without risk of infection because it naturally inhibits bacterial growth.

4.     Use aloe vera gel externally to soothe mosquito bites, poison ivy, and bee stings.

5.     Add aloe vera juice to salad dressings to boost their flavor and nutritional value.

6.     Make aloe vera tea and drink it daily to keep your entire digestive system functioning well.

7.     Prepare fresh aloe vera juice at home using the pulp of the leaf. You may use the whole leaf if you have access to one. Put some chopped leaf in hot water, cover, let stand 5 minutes, then strain off the liquid. Drink two glasses per day.

8.     Take aloe vera supplements to promote general health. These include capsules, pills, liquids, teas, syrups, and powders.

9.     Make an aloe vera ointment that can be applied topically to heal burns, blisters, and bug bites. To make the ointment, simmer the juice in oil until it becomes thick enough to spread, then cool and store in a glass jar.

10.    Apply aloe vera juice directly to bug bites to reduce swelling and itching. If you apply the juice before the bite turns red, it works faster.

11.      Mix aloe vera juice with honey and lemon to create a soothing face mask.

12.          Use aloe veras latex sap to relieve pain.

13.          Use aloe veratrum (Mexican gold) to treat athlete's foot.

14.          Use aloe verata (Lemonade plant) to treat yeast infections.