Whether you’re a newbie to houseplants or have an impressive collection at home, chances are high that you own an aloe plant. These symbolic succulents are easy to care for, yet also deliver gorgeous green leaves to wherever they call home. However, like with all good things, an aloe plant’s life must eventually end. We’re going to cover how long aloe plants live and also dive into the factors that can impact their lifespan.
How Long Aloe Plants Typically Live – The Essentials
Aloe plants can live over 20 years indoors, but many die around the ten-year mark. Warm and dry air, lots of bright light, infrequent watering, and protection from pests and diseases will increase the likelihood that aloe plants will live over ten years.
About Aloe Plants
Aloe plants belong to the Aloe genus. While there are many different species of aloe plants, Aloe vera is the most commonly grown.
This species is native to the Middle East and North Africa, but it has spread throughout much of the world. In some areas, it is considered an invasive species.
Aloe plants are perennial plants with thick, fleshy, green leaves. The leaves are long and triangular, and small teeth appear on the margins of older leaves.
The leaves form a rosette, with newer and smaller leaves appearing from the center of the plant.
When grown outdoors in the proper environment, aloe plants can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide. However, they often remain smaller when grown indoors (and can even be grown in water).
What Is the Natural Life Cycle of an Aloe Plant in the Wild?
In the wild, aloe plants can reproduce both sexually through seeds and asexually through the development of offsets.
Mature aloe plants grown outside continue to grow after they produce flowers and seeds and/or offsets. The plants eventually die once they become diseased and/or weak.
How Long Can Aloe Plants Live Indoors?
Aloe plants typically live for around ten years indoors. However, they can live over 20 years as long as they are properly cared for.
Key Factors That Contribute to the Longevity of Aloe Plants
Like with all plants, an aloe plant’s environment and the care it receives can impact how long it lives. The following factors can all impact aloe’s lifespan.
Light Exposure
Aloe plants like lots of bright, direct light. If they are grown in the shade or a dim indoor area, they will struggle and may display signs of discoloration, such as yellowing foliage. So if you want your plant to live as long as possible, position your aloe in a spot with lots of bright light.
Temperature and Humidity
While many houseplants like warm and humid conditions, aloe plants prefer drier conditions. They will be more likely to thrive if they are grown in low humidity and air temperatures between 65-85ºF.
Potting Soil
Like many plants with succulent leaves, aloe vera plants HATE sitting in wet soil. Therefore, you must use a well-draining aloe soil mix. A mix that contains sand, perlite, or pumice will often work well. It’s also prudent to consider repotting aloe plants with a fresh mix every 18 months to two years.
Watering
As mentioned above, aloe plants don’t like sitting in wet soil, and actually prefer their soil on the drier side. Therefore, you should only water aloe plants when the soil has thoroughly dried out.
Fertilizing:
Aloe plants will benefit from fertilizing once annually in the early spring.
Pest and Disease Control
Aloe plants are susceptible to numerous pests and diseases, all of which can cause the plant’s health to decline. Quickly treating these issues will help your plant live longer.
Look out for fungal diseases that are more likely to occur with wet soil and humid air. If you notice them, trim off infected portions and decrease the moisture around your plant.
You should also keep an eye out for tiny sap-sucking pests like aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Wipe off these pests with a wet soapy rag, or spray larger infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Aloe Plant FAQs:
How Long Do Aloe Plants Live Indoors?
Aloe plants can live over 20 years indoors. However, they more frequently live around ten years.
Do Aloe Plants Outgrow Their Pots?
Yes, aloe plants can outgrow their pots over time. When the plant’s roots grow out of the bottom of the pot, it is time to repot into a larger container.
How Often Do Aloe Plants Grow New Leaves?
Aloe plants can grow new leaves every month. The plants will grow leaves more quickly under the right environmental conditions.
How Big Will an Aloe Plant Get?
An aloe plant can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide. However, the plants often remain smaller when grown indoors.
Will Aloe Plants Live Longer When Grown Outdoors?Â
Aloe plants may live longer when grown outdoors, but it all depends on the environmental conditions.
How Long Aloe Plants Live For – Wrapping Up
As long as you provide your aloe plant with the proper environment and care, you can expect it to live for at least ten years indoors.
Briana holds a B.S. in Plant Sciences from Penn State University. She manages a small market garden where she grows vegetables and herbs. She also enjoys growing flowers and houseplants at home.
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