Aloe Vera is a lovely plant with incredible healing qualities. But if you’re caring for one, you probably have many questions floating around in your head. You might ask, “Do you water aloe vera from top or bottom?”
This post helps you understand everything about watering an aloe vera plant. We’ll begin by addressing your immediate question and show why watering from the bottom is ideal. Then move on to other aloe vera watering tips.
Do You Water Aloe Vera From Top or Bottom?
Rain always comes from above. And that might lead you to believe that you should similarly water your plants. Let the rain fall from the top and travel down.
Unfortunately, watering houseplants from the top is not the preferred method. Instead, water from the bottom.
When trying to figure out do you water aloe vera from top or bottom, the most critical element is figuring out where the water needs to be. Aloe vera, like many plants, cannot absorb much water through its leaves.
The roots of aloe vera plants are what take in almost all of the water. And that is why you should water your aloe vera from the bottom. By focusing on the soil and root system, you’ll provide the water to the part of the plant that can use it the most.
So do yourself a favor and avoid making a mess by watering the upper leaves. Pour the water into the soil and let the roots work to bring the water back to the leaves.
Tips To Water Aloe Vera Plants
Now that you know the answer to “Do you water aloe vera from top or bottom?” is “bottom,” let’s move on to other aloe vera watering tips. There are other considerations, such as how to water, when to water, and signs of watering issues.
Water Slowly
When watering houseplants, your goal should be to saturate the soil without causing a completely flooded pot. The best way to achieve this is to pour the water slowly.
Allow the soil to absorb the water rather than pool on top. If you pour too quickly, it can cause you to think that you’ve given the plant enough water when it’s just sitting on top.
Have patience and slowly water your aloe vera plant. Continue until some water begins to flow out of the drainage holes. Allow the excess water to come out of the holes. If you don’t have proper drainage, you could cause mold to grow or root rot to happen.
Don’t Water Too Often
Finding the right balance for watering your plants is a critical step forward. Aloe vera plants are succulents. This designation means they do an excellent job retaining water and usually thrive in a more arid environment.
The amount and timing of the watering needs for an aloe vera plant depend on many conditions. The sunlight, humidity, and soil composition can all impact the water required.
Most aloe vera plants need watering about every two to three weeks. Soak the soil and root system, let the excess water drain, then leave it alone and watch it thrive.
If you want to check the water conditions, there is an easy way. Place your finger about two to three inches down into the top of the soil. If it is damp, you probably don’t need to water your aloe vera plant.
Signs of Watering Issues
Many signs may indicate water-related issues with aloe vera plants. Keep an eye out for these and adjust your watering as needed.
Plants, like humans, can start to swell when things go wrong. This swelling can form blisters known as edema. If you notice fluid-filled blisters forming, that could be a sign of overwatering.
Other signs of overwatering include discolored or soft leaves, mold in the soil, and sagging leaves or root rot. If you see any of these, overwatering might be the cause. Learn how to revive a aloe vera plant.
Do You Water Aloe Vera From Top or Bottom: Wrap Up
There are many things to keep in mind when watering your plants. Do you water aloe vera from top or bottom is on the top of the list. And we now know that you want to water from the bottom to provide water to the root system, not the leaves.
On top of that, other aloe vera watering tips include watering slowly. Don’t water too often, and watch for signs of water-related issues.