So, you’ve brought home a lovely aloe plant and want to make sure it thrives indoors. Great choice! Aloe vera isn’t just a beautiful succulent—it’s also easy to care for, super low-maintenance, and comes with natural healing benefits. But like any plant, it still needs a bit of love to stay happy.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to take care of an aloe plant inside. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will help your aloe flourish indoors.
Why Aloe Vera Is the Perfect Indoor Plant
If you’re not exactly known for having a green thumb, aloe vera is here to save the day. This awesome plant is not only beautiful to look at, but it’s also practical. The gel inside its leaves can help heal burns and skin irritations. Plus, it purifies the air—what more could you ask for?
But don’t be fooled by its sturdy appearance. Aloe still needs proper care to stay healthy, especially when it’s living inside your home.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Aloe Plant
Let’s talk location! One of the most important things you can do when learning how to take care of an aloe plant inside is to give it the right lighting.
Give It Plenty of Light
Aloe vera loves bright, indirect sunlight. A sunny windowsill that gets around six to eight hours of light per day is perfect.
- If it’s too dark, your plant might become leggy and weak.
- Too much direct sun, especially behind glass, can cause browning or sunburn on the leaves.
A south or west-facing window usually works best. Just keep an eye on how the plant reacts, and adjust if needed. Think of it like finding the sweet spot—good light, but not too harsh.
Picking the Right Pot and Soil
Use a Pot with Drainage Holes
Here’s a golden rule: never use a pot without drainage holes. Aloe vera hates sitting in water. If the roots stay wet for too long, they can rot pretty quickly.
Terracotta pots are especially good because they help the soil dry out faster. This is super helpful for water-sensitive plants like aloe.
Choose the Right Soil
Regular potting soil retains too much moisture, which aloe doesn’t like. Instead, go for cactus or succulent soil. These mixes are well-draining and give your plant the dry conditions it loves.
- Look for a mix that contains sand, perlite, or pumice for better drainage.
- You can also make your own mix by adding sand or perlite to regular potting soil—just make sure the final blend isn’t too rich or compact.
How to Water Your Aloe Vera Properly
Let’s be honest—overwatering is the fastest way to kill an indoor aloe plant. So how much water does it actually need?
Follow the “Soak and Dry” Method
This approach is simple but effective. Water your plant deeply, then let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
- Stick your finger about 2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
- In general, watering once every 2–3 weeks works well, but this can change based on the season and your home’s humidity.
During the winter, aloe goes dormant and needs even less water—once a month might be enough. Think of it like the plant taking a long nap. You wouldn’t wake it just to give it water, right?
Do Aloe Vera Plants Need Fertilizer?
Good news: aloe vera doesn’t need much feeding. But a little boost once in a while can help it grow stronger and faster.
When and How to Feed
- Use a diluted, balanced houseplant fertilizer or a cactus blend.
- Fertilize only during the spring and summer—once a month is enough.
- Avoid feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.
Think of fertilizer like an occasional treat, not a daily meal. Too much can actually harm your plant.
Common Aloe Vera Problems and How to Fix Them
Even easy-going aloe plants can run into trouble. Here’s how to spot issues early and fix them fast.
Wilting or Mushy Leaves
This usually means the plant is getting too much water. When the leaves feel soft and start to droop, it’s time to cut back, let the soil dry out, and reevaluate your watering routine.
Brown or Curling Leaves
This might be caused by too much direct sun or not enough water. Move your plant to a spot with filtered light and check the moisture levels in the soil.
Leggy or Floppy Growth
This means your aloe isn’t getting enough sunlight. Try moving it closer to a brighter window or rotating it weekly so all sides get equal light.
How to Repot Your Indoor Aloe Plant
As your aloe grows, it might outgrow its pot. Don’t worry—repotting is easy if you follow a few simple steps.
When to Repot
- If the plant looks cramped or top-heavy, it’s time for more space.
- Spring is the best time to repot when aloe is in its active growing phase.
Steps to Repot Aloe Indoors
- Choose a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
- Add a fresh layer of cactus or succulent mix to the new pot.
- Gently remove the aloe from its old pot and shake off excess soil.
- Place it in the new pot, cover with soil, and pack it down lightly.
- Wait a few days before watering to let the roots settle.
Bonus Tips for Thriving Aloe Indoors
Want to take your aloe care game to the next level? Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:
- Rotate your plant regularly for even growth.
- Wipe dust off the leaves occasionally to help them breathe.
- Keep the temperature between 60–75°F for best results.
- Don’t crowd your aloe—good airflow helps prevent pests and mildew.
FAQs About Taking Care of an Aloe Plant Inside
Can aloe vera survive without sunlight?
Not really. While it can tolerate low light for short periods, aloe needs bright, indirect sunlight to thrive indoors. Without enough light, it’ll get leggy and weak.
How often should I water my aloe plant indoors?
Typically, once every 2–3 weeks. Always check the soil before watering. If it’s still damp, hold off a little longer.
Why are my aloe plant’s leaves turning brown?
This could be from too much direct sunlight, overwatering, or dry indoor air. Evaluate your plant’s location and watering habits.
Is it okay to use aloe directly from the plant?
Yes! Just snip off a mature leaf near the base, squeeze out the clear gel, and apply it to cuts, sunburns, or dry skin. Just be sure your plant is healthy and chemical-free.
Final Thoughts on Growing Aloe Indoors
Learning how to take care of an aloe plant inside doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, once you understand the basics—light, soil, water, and container—you’ll find it’s one of the most forgiving plants you can have.
Just remember to give it sunshine, let the soil dry out between waterings, and avoid overfeeding. With a little patience and attention, your aloe vera will reward you with lush leaves, air-purifying power, and maybe even a little skin relief next time you get a burn.
