How to Plant Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is both popular and easy to grow, provided you understand the level of water and sun that mimics the hot climate this plant thrives in. Unusually for a succulent, the aloe plant cannot be grown from a leaf cutting, and instead is typically propagated by detaching younger clone plants from the base of the adult plant or from the joint root system. These young plants must be treated carefully, as explained in detail in the section on propagation.

Part One of Three:
Planting or Transplanting Aloe Vera

1

Know when to transplant. Aloe plants have relatively short roots and heavy leaves, so they are commonly moved to a heavier pot when they become top-heavy and tip over. If Aloe vera runs out of space for its roots to grow, it may start to produce "pups" that can be moved to their own pot (see the Propagating section). If you are more interested in the adult plant growing than producing new plants, transplant it to a larger pot before the roots begin to circle the walls of its container.
1. dormant state. However, they may suffer harm if exposed to temperatures below 25ºF (-4ºC).
  - Hardiness zones 9, 10, and 11 are most suitable for keeping Aloe vera outdoors year round.^[3]If you live in another zone, you may wish to keep your Aloe vera outdoors most of the year, and bring it indoors before the frost.
  - The sunniest windows are those facing west or south if you live in the northern hemisphere, or those facing west or north if you live in the southern hemisphere.
  - Despite the plant's adaptations that allow it to thrive in hot conditions, it is still possible to burn the plant. Move it to an area of light shade if the leaves begin to turn brown.^[4]
2. 3
  Plant the Aloe vera in well draining soil. Aloe vera plants are adapted for survival in dry conditions, and may rot if planted in soil that collects standing water. Use a cactus potting mix, or create your own mix using equal parts soil, sand, and gravel.^[5]
  - If planting Aloe vera in a container, make sure the container has a hole in the base for water to drain through.
3. 4
  
  Cover the root ball when planting but do not let the leaves touch the soil. Place the Aloe vera root ball just below the soil surface. If any of the thick, green leaves are partially buried or touch the soil, they may rot.^[6]
4. 5
  
  Cover the surface of the soil with gravel or pebbles (optional). Place a layer of small rocks around the base of the aloe plant to keep the soil in place and reduce evaporation.^[7] This is not required for your aloe plant to thrive, so you may leave the soil exposed if you prefer the appearance.
5. 6
  Do not water for the first few days after planting. Before you start watering, give the aloe plant a few days to repair any roots that may have been damaged during planting.^[9]. Watering damaged roots increases the chance of root rot. Aloe plants store plenty of water in their leaves, and should not be harmed by the lack of water during this time. Give it a light watering the first one or two times you water if you would like to be extra safe.
  - For watering instructions in day to day care, see Providing Daily Care.