Aloe Vera
Tamil Name: Kattraalai; Scientific Name: Aloe vera;
Planting/Sowing
Jun – Jul; Sep – Oct;
Harvesting
Jun – Jul; Sep – Oct; (After 2 years)
First Harvest
~720 Days
General Info
| Crop category | Greens |
| Life span | Perennial |
| Type of crop | Shrub |
| Part(s) of the crop to harvest | Leaves |
| Avg. Height | 60–100 cm (24–39 in) |
Climate & Humidity
Aloe vera has wide adaptability and can grow in various climatic conditions. It can be seen growing equally well in warm, humid or dry climate. However, it is intolerant to extreme cool conditions.
Planting / Sowing
When to plant / sow seeds (ideal season):
June – July; September – October;
How to plant:
It is generally propagated by roots with sprouts. For this purpose, medium sized roots that have sprouted are chosen and carefully dug out without damaging the parent plant at the base and directly planted.
Soil Depth & Spacing Requirements
The root system of this plant is shallow and does not penetrate deep into the soil; normally a spacing of 40cm x 45cm or 60cm x 30cm is followed
NOTE: Please go through the Guides in the Knowledge Base for more details on topics ranging from Spacing & Lighting to Soil and Nutrients.
Irrigation
Aloe can be successfully cultivated both under irrigated and rainfed conditions. However, the plants are sensitive to water logged conditions.
NOTE: Irrigation should depend on how moist / wet the soil is. Check your plants everyday to see if they require irrigation or not. Check the Watering & Irrigation guide for more info.
Harvesting
When to harvest
The thick fleshy leaves are ready for harvest from the second year after planting. Normally, three harvests are taken in a year by removing three to four leaves per plant. Harvesting is labour intensive. The leaves will regenerate from the scar and thus the crop can be harvested up to 5 years after planting.
How to harvest
By plucking leaves and leaving the broken rhizome in the soil which will further sprout again to a new plant. Harvesting is typically carried out in the morning and / or evening.
NOTE: Harvest periods can vary depending on the environmental, climatic, soil conditions.
Pests & Diseases
| Pests | Mealy bug |
| Common Diseases/ Problems | Leaf spots |
| Pest and Disease prevention measure(s) | Avoid over watering the plants |
NOTE: Read Pest & Disease Control for more information.
Did you know?
In a 2014 study, researchers found aloe vera extract to be a safe and effective alternative to chemical-based mouthwashes. The plant’s natural ingredients, which include vitamin C, can block plaque and can also provide relief from bleeding or swollen gums. [Source]
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