Aloe vera care guide
Quick answer
Water your Aloe vera when the soil has dried out completely. In summer that’s typically every 11 to 17 days. In winter, slow down to every 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often.
- WateringWhen the soil has dried out completely
- LightBright / direct light
- Climate13–27 °C (55–81 °F)
- Pet safetyToxic to cats and dogs
Not sure it’s this plant?Get the free Botanicaly app and find out with a photoWhen and how to water
When the soil has dried out completely
- Summer · Jun–AugEvery 11 to 17 days
- Winter · Dec–FebEvery 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often
Use room-temperature water and let any excess drain. Never leave the pot sitting in standing water.
Adjust the timing for the light at the plant, the pot’s size and material, and the humidity indoors. Terracotta dries faster than glazed ceramic.
Work out your own rhythm with the watering calculator.
Light and placement
Bright / direct light
Aloe vera needs as much light as possible, including direct sun. Shade it from the hottest summer sun behind glass, and move it into stronger sun gradually so the leaves do not scorch. Place it in or near a south- or west-facing window.
Feeding
Aloe vera needs very little fertilizer. A light cactus or general liquid feed once or twice in late spring or summer is plenty, and none in autumn or winter.
Temperature & humidity
Climate13–27 °C (55–81 °F)
Humidity30–60%
During leafy growth, aim for 13–27 °C (55–81 °F). For routine indoor care, keep it above about 10 °C (50 °F) and avoid cold drafts. This is a care guideline, not an exact damage threshold. Cooler overwintering depends on the species and its rest conditions.
It does best at 30–60% humidity. It doesn’t need misting.
Common problems
Yellowing, drooping, and dry edges often point to watering or drainage. Compare the signs before changing the routine.
Find what’s wrong
Toxic to pets?
Yes. Keep it out of reach.
Wear gloves when you cut or repot it. Keep the sap away from your eyes and skin, and wash your hands afterwards.
Pet-safety information in the JungleBook uses ASPCA reference data where available. It is reference information, not veterinary advice.
Full Aloe vera toxicity guide →
Pet-safe alternatives with similar light
Common questions
How often should I water an Aloe vera?
Water your Aloe vera when the soil has dried out completely. In summer, that’s typically every 11 to 17 days. In winter, slow down to every 22 to 34 days, sometimes less often.
How much light does an Aloe vera need?
Aloe vera needs as much light as possible, including direct sun. Shade it from the hottest summer sun behind glass, and move it into stronger sun gradually so the leaves do not scorch. Place it in or near a south- or west-facing window.
Is Aloe vera safe for cats and dogs?
The source reports vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea. Keep Aloe vera out of reach of pets, or pick a non-toxic alternative like Arabian jasmine, Echeveria, donkey’s tail, or ponytail palm.
Sources4 references
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Plants of the World OnlineAccepted name and synonyms
- North Carolina State University Extension Gardener Plant ToolboxDescription · houseplant care · insects, diseases, and other plant problems
- Penn State ExtensionLight · watering · potting mix · drainage · repotting · winter care
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlScientific name · toxic principles · dog, cat, and horse toxicity · clinical signs
- How we check our plant advice
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