Aloe vera plants should generally be watered based on the dryness of the soil rather than a fixed schedule. The best practice is to check the soil moisture by pushing your finger about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm) deep; if the soil is dry at that depth, it’s time to water
. Typical watering frequency:
- During the growing season (spring and summer), water about once a week, or up to twice a week in hotter climates, ensuring the soil dries out between waterings
- In the fall and especially winter, aloe vera enters a dormant phase and requires much less water—about once every two weeks or even less frequently. Overwatering in winter can cause root rot
- Some sources suggest watering every 2-3 weeks in summer and less in winter, emphasizing that the soil must be completely dry before watering again
Additional tips:
- Aloe vera is drought-tolerant and stores water in its leaves, so it tolerates dry periods better than overwatering
- Young plants may need watering a bit more frequently than mature plants because their roots are less developed
- Always avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot
In summary, water your aloe vera roughly once a week during warm months, reducing to every two weeks or less in winter, always checking that the soil is dry before watering again. This approach prevents overwatering and keeps the plant healthy and thriving
