How to water an Aloe Vera?
of reading
Aloe Vera is the star of "Jungle Chic". Aesthetic, purifying and medicinal (its gel works wonders on burns), it has everything going for it.
But beware: beneath its robust appearance, it has a fatal weakness. It's a succulent plant native to arid environments. It's designed to store water, not to be bathed in it.
How do you water it without rotting its precious leaves? Follow the guide.
1. When should you water? (The Dry Rule)
Unlike your Calatheas or Ficus, Aloe Vera needs the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Spring/Summer: Water approximately every 10 to 15 days.
- Autumn/Winter: The plant is dormant. Light watering once a month is sufficient.
The finger test: Push your finger into the soil to a depth of 3 cm. If you feel any moisture, do not water. Wait a few more days.
2. Which tool should I use?
Aloe vera grows in a rosette. If water stagnates in the center of the leaves (the core of the plant), it will rot within a few days. Therefore, you should never water it from above.
You need a precision tool to pour the water directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves.
Precision above all
To save your Aloe, use a watering can with a long spout. This allows you to slip the water under the fleshy leaves without wetting the heart.
- 🎯 Fine Beak: Target the soil, not the leaves.
- ✨ Design: An elegant object that matches the modern style of Aloe.
3. How to water correctly?
Indoors
The technique is that of the "generous but rare bath".
- Pour the water generously onto the soil (avoiding the leaves).
- Allow the water to drain through the drainage holes.
- IMPORTANT: Empty the saucer immediately! If the roots sit in residual water, they will certainly die.
Note: Never mist an Aloe Vera. Water on the leaves promotes fungal growth.
In the Garden (Southern France)
If you are lucky enough to grow Aloe in the ground (be careful, it will freeze!), rain is usually sufficient. Only water during prolonged dry spells in summer, if the leaves start to thin.
4. The secret is in the ground
The best watering in the world will be useless if your soil retains water like a sponge.
Aloe needs perfect drainage . Use a "Special Cactus" mix or mix your potting soil with 1/3 river sand or perlite. Always put clay pebbles at the bottom of the pot.
5. Too much water? Warning signs
Your aloe is trying to communicate with you. Here's how to decode its signals:
- Soft, yellow, or translucent leaves: This is overwatering! Stop immediately. If the soil is waterlogged, remove the plant from its pot and let the roots air dry for 24 hours before repotting in dry potting soil.
- Thin leaves curling up: This indicates a lack of water (quite rare). The plant is drawing on its reserves. Water it thoroughly.
- Brown and dry leaves: Too much direct sunlight (burn).
In summary
Aloe vera is an independent plant. Treat it like a cactus, not a fern.
Well-draining soil, precise watering at the base, and above all: let the soil dry out!
See our Precision Watering Cans