Aloe vera plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. If your plant is not growing, it may not be receiving enough light. While aloe can tolerate some shade, prolonged low light conditions slow photosynthesis, stunting growth. Place your aloe near a south- or west-facing window where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light to supplement.
Aloe vera is a succulent adapted to arid environments, meaning it stores water in its leaves. Overwatering is a common cause of stunted growth or root rot. The soil should dry out completely between waterings, and the pot must have drainage holes. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix to prevent waterlogged roots, which can suffocate the plant and halt growth.
Aloe vera requires loose, sandy soil with good aeration. Heavy or compacted soil retains too much moisture and restricts root development. If your plant isn’t growing, check the soil composition. A mix of potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite (or pumice) ensures proper drainage and root health. Repotting every 2-3 years with fresh soil can also prevent nutrient depletion.
Aloe vera prefers temperatures between 55–80°F (13–27°C). Extreme cold or heat can stress the plant, slowing growth. Avoid placing it near drafty windows, air vents, or outdoor locations with frost. In winter, protect the plant from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as cold damage can cause growth to stall or leaves to wilt.
While aloe vera isn’t a heavy feeder, poor soil nutrition can hinder growth. If the plant has been in the same pot for years, the soil may be depleted of essential minerals. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) during the growing season (spring/summer). Over-fertilizing can harm the roots, so apply no more than once a month.
If the aloe’s roots fill the pot entirely, it may become root-bound, restricting growth. Signs include roots circling the pot or growing through drainage holes. Repot the plant into a container 1-2 inches larger in diameter, gently loosening the roots before transplanting. This gives the roots space to expand and supports healthier growth.
Pests like mealybugs, scale, or spider mites can weaken the plant, diverting energy from growth. Check the leaves (especially undersides) for tiny insects, webbing, or sticky residue. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap, and isolate the plant to prevent spreading. Healthy aloe plants are more resistant to pests, so addressing other stressors is key.
Aloe vera may enter a dormant phase in winter, during which growth slows or stops. This is natural and not a cause for concern. Reduce watering during dormancy and resume care in spring when active growth resumes. Avoid mistaking dormancy for a problem—patience is essential.
A pot that’s too large can hold excess moisture, risking root rot, while a pot that’s too small restricts root growth. Choose a container proportionate to the plant’s size (about 1-2 inches wider than the root ball). Terra cotta pots are ideal because they wick away moisture, reducing overwatering risks.
Tap water with high chlorine or fluoride can stress aloe vera, leading to brown leaf tips or slowed growth. Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for watering. If tap water is your only option, let it sit overnight to allow chlorine to evaporate before using it on the plant.
