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Generally, aloe vera plants need around six to eight hours of direct sunlight. Yet, it is advised to keep them away from the scorching hot afternoon sun as it can cause the plant to sunburn.
Another reason for sunburn can be moving an aloe plant from a shady area to a spot that receives direct sunlight. Thus, Sunlight is one of the most critical factors to consider while growing an aloe plant. So, if you have doubts about how much sunlight an aloe vera plant needs, we have you covered!
Basic Requirements
Soil type | Full sunlight; bright, indirect sunlight |
| Light exposure | Allow soil to dry out completely before watering thoroughly (during summers – after every two weeks and during winters – after every three weeks) |
| Watering frequency | Succulent or cactus mix |
Aloe vera thrives in the sunshine. So, ensure your plant enjoys 6 to 7 hours of sunlight daily. However, it is best to offer your plant indirect and partial sunlight as direct scorching sun rays can cause the leaves to dry out. Also, aloe vera plants like to grow at 55- and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
When all the other requirements are met, and your plant receives enough sunlight, you will observe that your aloe plant grows a lot faster and healthier.
Ensuring that the plant gets the right amount of sunlight is extremely important. Less sunlight or too much shade can cause the plant to get leggy and have narrower leaves with little gel.
Artificial Light or Sunlight?
Aloe vera can either be grown indoors or outdoors. This means that it will thrive in either sunlight or artificial light.
If you are growing aloe indoors, it is best to position the planter under bright and indirect sunlight. You can also pick a white fluorescent light and place the planter so that the light is around 6 to 12 inches above the plant.
The plant should receive artificial light during daylight hours, or around 16 hours a day. Moreover, it can cause stunted growth or blanched leaves in aloe vera plants.
And if you are growing aloe outdoors, place it in a spot that gets dappled sunlight, protecting the plant from heat during the hottest times of the day. Aloe vera loves full sun and even more in areas with cooler microclimates where fog is common.
One can even place them on their window sill. This way, it can get proper sunlight while you can quickly grow the plant indoors. But if your aloe plant has been indoors for a long time and is already acclimatized to the artificial sun, avoid moving it directly to the garden.
Ensure that you gradually acclimate it to more sun. Slowly start exposing your plant to sunlight daily and increase the duration daily. For this, covered patios and porches could prove to be good spots.
Indoor Light Requirements
Indoor aloe plants may suffer if they do not get enough light. While artificial lights are a great option, one can ensure their plants get enough sunlight by positioning the planter within 3 feet of unshaded south- or west-facing window.
But, if you live in a cooler area where fog is expected, one can consider placing the planters near north- or east-facing windows.
The right amount of light is essential. So, if you plan to offer your plant artificial light, you should know what amount of sunlight enters your home.
This way, you can optimize and offer the amount of light that will enhance your plant’s growth. So, before you pick a spot for your aloe plant, use a light meter to measure the amount of sunlight that enters your home.
How Low Light Impacts Aloe Vera?
Besides light, the sun also offers plants warmth, which enhances their overall health. If your aloe vera plant is underexposed to light for a long time, you might not be able to see any blooms.
Moreover, you may even witness discolored growth. As mentioned, improper light can lead to leggy and weak growth.
Apart from these issues, aloe vera plants that do not receive enough light are susceptible to root rot. Since light offers warmth, it helps regulate moisture levels in the soil.
But with cold and damp soil, the probability of root rot increases. So, checking the soil’s moisture level is better to avoid such issues.
You should also avoid watering your plant frequently if your plant is not receiving sufficient sunlight. Water your aloe plant only when the soil appears or feels dry, significantly when growing at less-than-ideal light levels.
How Excessive Light Impacts Aloe Vera?
Although aloe vera loves the sun, overexposure to direct, harsh, and scorching sunlight can damage the plant. This is usually a concern in coastal regions. Overexposure is also common when planters are positioned against a wall or glass in the west or south-facing bed. This is because light reflects off the structure, producing more light for the plant.
If your plant is receiving excessive light, you may observe blanched leaves. Midday wilting is also a common sign of overexposure to light. Moving your planter to a spot that receives dappled sunlight at midday is better to avoid this.
You can protect the plant with shade cloth if you grow aloe in your garden. You can even consider transplanting the plant to a lightly shaded place.
Light Considerations Based on The Age of The Aloe Vera Plant
Usually, older aloe vera plants are better able to withstand direct sunlight than younger plants that have just propagated. More immature aloe plants will not tolerate harsh and intense light.
If you have recently potted some seedlings or pups, consider keeping them under a bright or diffused light. Or place them near a south, east, or west-facing window. However, be sheer that they are protected with shade cloth or sheer curtain during the daytime.
You can move the planter inside at night. Once they are established, gradually start exposing them to direct sunlight.
How Much Sun Does Aloe Vera Need to Bloom?
You can increase the chances of your aloe plant blooming by offering it enough sunlight. Moving your plant to your garden is best as soon as the temperature starts to warm up. Be sure there are no signs of winter returning before you do so.
Your aloe plant’s ideal temperature is around 21 to 29° Celsius during the day and 15° Celsius at night. You might have to bring your plant back indoors in the evening if the temperature falls below 15° Celsius at night.
How to Ensure That My Aloe Vera Plants Get Enough Sunshine?
Spring and summer seasons are the best for your aloe vera as they can bathe in the sun almost all day. You can move the planter to a spot that receives more sunlight during winter so your plant gets all the light and warmth it needs.
Another trick is rotating your planter in a couple of months. This will ensure that all sides of your aloe vera plant receive sunlight evenly.
Why Is My Aloe Plant Not Blooming?
Your aloe vera plant might be too young to bloom. Only mature and established aloe vera plants can bloom. Be sure your plant is at least four years of age before you expect any blooms. So, if you cannot see flowers on your aloe plant, it is simply because it is too young.
While this is one of the primary reasons, other reasons could prevent your aloe plant from blooming.
An aloe plant needs much more than proper lighting for healthy development. Here is a complete guide on growing and caring for your aloe vera plants that will help you develop a healthy plant that blooms vibrant yellow and red blossoms.
Other Articles On Growing Aloe Vera That Will Help You In Your Journey
How Much Sun Does Aloe Vera Require
The Ultimate Guide To Growing Aloe Vera
Does Aloe Vera Clean The Air In Your Home?
Is Aloe Vera an Indoor Or Outdoor Plant
How To Propagate Aloe Vera At home
Know When To Re-Pot Aloe Vera For Huge Growth
How to speed up the growth of Aloe Vera
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take the Aloe Vera Plant to Grow?
An aloe vera pup or a seedling will take 3 to 4 years to fully mature.
Do Aloe Vera Plants Need Trimming or Pruning?
Trimming or pruning is quite important for your aloe plant. It helps the plant to grow properly and keeps it in good condition. So, if you come across any damaged leaves, trim them. You can also cut the excess outer leaves to give the plant a more manicured look. You can also remove old stems or suckers from the soil.
Are there any Side-Effects of Growing Aloe Vera?
Although aloe vera is known for its bountiful benefits, it can also have unwanted effects on pets and children. So, it is important to keep the plant out of its reach.
How Do I Know If My Aloe Vera Plant Is Healthy?
Thick, green, and firm leaves standing tall indicate that your aloe plant is thriving. The plant should be bluish-green in color. However, it is quite normal if the leaves turn yellow in color. This usually happens when they are grown in full sun.
Besides proper sunlight, an aloe plant requires many different things to thrive. You must consider several things if you have just started growing aloe vera. You must have good draining soil, an adequate watering schedule, and the right temperature to reap all the healthy benefits from your aloe plant.
To make this a little easier, here is a video highlighting six excellent tips to help you grow aloe vera without any hassle.
Conclusion on How Much Sun Does Aloe Vera Require To Grow
I hope this information will help you offer the right amount of sunlight to your aloe plants and grow some thick, verdant, fleshy leaves that will rejuvenate your space and present you with abundant health benefits.
