By: David M. Dodge Jr.
Overview: Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for years for its medicinal properties by ancient societies like Greece and China. It is still a natural cure used today. In its leaves, there is a gel-like substance that is useful for treating acne, burns, and irritated skin. It can also be taken orally to treat diabetes, bowel issues, and weight loss. Today, we will look at growing aloe vera from seeds, harvesting, and a sweet treat made with aloe. (Source: NIH Clinical Center)
Seed starting: Aloe seeds are small, gray, and brown seeds that are found in the plant’s dried pods. Press the seeds lightly into the soil’s surface in a potting mix that drains easily. (Source: Gardening Know How.) After that, place it in a bright and warm area, but out of direct sunlight. You want at least six hours of sunlight per day. It is recommended that seeds be put at a shallow depth of about 1/8 inch. To water, use a spray bottle to moisten the soil’s surface. Be careful! Too much water can cause seed rot. (Source: Get Sprig Box)
Growing advice: Give the seeds plenty of room, about 7 to 10 cm. (Source: Get Sprig Box). A common pest for aloe is mealybugs. These pests can be handled by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used. (Source: Green Matters)
Harvesting advice: The leaves of aloe become ripe when they start to become rosy at the tips. Don’t harvest too much at once and avoid taking smaller leaves. Aloe is slow-growing! (Source: Gardening Know How) To store aloe vera, keep it in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze it for up to a year. For shorter storage, you can leave it on the counter just make sure the temperature isn’t too warm! (Source: Mind Body Green)
Vegan Chocolate Aloe Ice Cream
This sweet treat is dairy-free and packed with antioxidants, nutrients, fiber, and plant protein!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of raw cashews
- 1 cup of water
- 2 tbsp of cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp of raw cacao nibs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 4 tbsp of rinsed aloe vera gel
Directions: Add all to a blender, then blend for 1–2 minutes until the substance is smooth and freeze for at least 4 hours. Then remove it from the freezer and let it thaw for 10 minutes, so it softens up. Enjoy! (Source: Living Color Garden Center)