Aloe care: light, water, and pet safety

Aloe vera

Care table

Light	Bright indirect light to some direct sun. Bright light with some direct sun. A south or west window is best.
Water	Let it dry out fully. Water when the soil is dry all the way down.
Humidity	Average room air is fine
Repotting	Every 2 to 3 years in spring. It likes to be a bit root bound.

Winter care

Water sparingly, often every 3 to 6 weeks in a cool room. Stop fertilizer. Give it your brightest window.

Pet safety

Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA). ASPCA entry: Aloe

Pet safety comes from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list. The list is not exhaustive, and a plant marked non-toxic can still upset a pet stomach. If a pet eats a plant and you are worried, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply). ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list.

Common problems

Soft, mushy base or black roots: Root rot from soil that stays wet too long. Common in winter.
Thin, pale, floppy leaves: Not enough light.
Brown or red leaves: A sudden move into strong sun. Adjust gradually.

How to check the soil

Finger test: push a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle, about an inch. Dry and crumbly means that layer is dry. Cool or damp means wait. For deeper checks use a wooden skewer: it comes out clean when the soil is dry.

All houseplants and the Light and Water tool