You should water your aloe plant based on the dryness of the soil rather than a fixed schedule. Generally, aloe vera plants need watering about once every 7 to 10 days during the growing season (spring and summer), but only if the soil is dry to a depth of 3-4 inches (8-10 cm). To check, insert your finger into the soil; if it feels dry at that depth, it's time to water
. In winter, aloe vera enters a dormant state and requires much less water- about half as much or even less, sometimes only once a month. Always ensure the plant is never sitting in standing water to prevent root rot
. Key tips for watering aloe plants include:
- Water the soil, not the leaves, preferably at the base of the plant
- Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots
- Larger pots retain moisture longer and require less frequent watering than smaller pots
- Provide plenty of light and good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases
- Signs your aloe needs water include wrinkled, less plump leaves and dry soil; signs of overwatering include soft, squishy leaves, yellowing or browning, and mushy roots
Underwatering is safer than overwatering since aloe stores water in its leaves and is prone to root rot if kept too wet
. In summary, water your aloe roughly every 1 to 2 weeks in warm months when the soil is dry, and reduce watering significantly in cooler months, always checking soil moisture before watering
