Expert: Greg Simpson - 9/15/2002

Question
I recently moved into a new house and found what looks to be an Aloe Vera Cactus.  It is whitish green, with thick triangular shaped leaves which grow up and out from the center.  I've watered it once in the last month but it still has dying leaves around the bottom and other leaves are brown at the tips. I live in southern california in the orange county area.  Should I water it more?  How much water?  Should I cut back the dead leaves?  I have no clue any help would be great. Thanks a lot.
                 Zach

Answer
Dear Zach,

I have found Aloe Vera to be very tough. And it is normal for the leaves to dry up and die at the base. I wouldn't water it any more than you have to. I live in Phoenix and have seen Aloe Vera plants make it through the summer (planted in the ground of course), without any additional water from me. Don't worry if it doesn't look like the plants at the nursery, those are grown in a greenhouse. If yours is in a pot, once a month for water should be fine. And you can pull off the dead leaves, but it isn't necessary.

Just an FYI, an Aloe isn't a cactus. They are actually related to Lilies believe it or not and are called “succulents”. And while all cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. Good luck.

Sincerely,

Greg