Aloe
Plant Growth and Care
Aloe
Vera plants grow in drier tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world that are
warm, and frost-free.
A
known anti-inflammatory, aloe vera gel has long been used for skin conditions
such as eczema, as well as minor cuts and burns. The beneficial properties
of aloe vera may be attributed, at least in part, to mucopolysaccharides (also
known as Glycosaminoglycans, or GAGs, which are long and unbranched
polysaccharides made up of repeating disaccharide units) that are to be found in
the inner gel of the leaf, especially acemannan.
Such
a prized plant (of all aloe plants, aloe barbadensis miller, or aloe vera, is
the most treasured) can be easily grown in frost-free climates year-round,
outdoors. Indoors, it can be grown too (but never achieve the better
growth and nutritional balance as outdoor plant).
For
outdoor cultivation the plant requires a sandy, well-drained soil. (There
is a saying in the gardening world, "Nobody wants their feet standing in a
puddle!") Allow to dry completely before the next watering. As
with most plants, too much watering can "drown" the plant by keeping
oxygen away from the roots, which promotes root rot. (Too much surface
water will also promote stem rot.)
Aloe
vera plants are propagated by the "pups" (small aloe vera shoots that
grow near the base of the mother plant). Before separating them from the
mother plant, allow the aloe pups to grow 3 to 4 inches so that they will
develop enough of their own roots system for healthy, strong growth.
Because
of the high water content of aloe, they are VERY sensitive to frost. For
this reason, when grown outside, they should be planted in full sun or light
shade.
Aloe
plants have a shallow - and thin - root system.
During
winter months your plants will go dormant, using very little water. In
colder areas the leaves may also darken and change color shade.
The
Aloe Vera Studies Organization does not respond to e-mails requesting advice on
identifying aloe vera plants, nor instructions on plant growth and care.
For such, contact your local plant nursery or garden shop.
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10 Reasons to Drink Aloe Vera.
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The good news is that with
these 100%
stabilized, fresh, potent, aloe vera drinks, just
two to four ounces, twice a day is sufficient for the wealth of vitamins,
enzymes, and minerals found in Aloe Vera Gel.