did you know?

Aloe vera is a medicinal aloe, used in cosmetics and shampoos, and as a topical ointment for sunburn.

general maintenance:

Remove any damaged or dead foliage after flowering. Repot in late winter or early spring, usually every 3?4 years.

pests/diseases:

Aloe is relatvely carefree although it can become infested with scale insects or mealybugs.

controls:

Remove scale with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol; to control both scale and mealybugs, apply horticultural-oil spray, following label directions.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a well-drained, partly shady to sunny site and set plants out at a distance equal to their mature spread. In Zones 7 and colder, plant in containers with a mix of 1 part pumice, 2 parts sand, and 3 parts compost; set plant high in pot to prevent rotting leaves. Water after planting.

water and fertilize:

Water thoroughly, allowing medium to dry almost completely between waterings during the growing season. During winter, keep dry but not arid and apply houseplant fertilizer, following label directions, when pots are filled with roots. Avoid overhead watering to prevent water spots.

garden hint:

Use aloe to add a sense of structure to the garden. Their architectural rosettes serve as living sculpture.

features:

• Drought Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Indoors
• Rock Garden

other uses:

• Medicinal