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The Best Grow Light For Aloe Vera: 2 Quality Types That The Owners Recommend

Learn everything you need to know about the best grow light for aloe vera.

Aloes are sun-loving plants and sometimes, growing them indoors might not provide them with enough sunlight, especially during the colder and gloomier autumn and winter days when the nights are considerably longer than the day.

There are many types of grow light for aloe vera, and choosing the ideal one requires planning and research. Keep reading because here is what you need to know before buying one.

How Much Sun Does My Aloe Vera Need?

Aloe vera is one of those plants that love the sun but doesn’t like it when it is directly aimed at its beautiful leaves. Three to five hours of light a day is quite enough for their good overall health and dark, robust leaves. If you give it an hour more than that, it can’t be out of place, moreover, it can have faster and more compact growth.

In the absence of light, your aloe plant gets droopy, leggy, dried, and loses pigmentation. However, worst of all is that it can lose its characteristic leaves and slow down growth. Accordingly, if you want your aloe vera to grow healthy and be vibrant, provide it with enough light. What to do when there is not enough sun is there perhaps grow light for aloe? Find out below.

Can aloe plants get too much sun?

Finding The Best Grow Light For Aloe Vera

Although it is most desirable that your aloe has about three or four hours of sunlight each day, your indoor plants can survive with the artificial one. Thanks to advanced technology, nowadays there is more than just one type of grow light aloe vera available, which actually makes things a lot easier.

Growers generally decide to buy Fluorescent and LED lights. So, we will tell you more about them below.

Fluorescent Type of Grow Light for Aloe Vera

No wonder the fluorescent type is one of the most purchased types of grow light for aloe vera, as it has been around for decades, and in addition, comes in different shapes and sizes. We must emphasize that they provide “full-spectrum” lights, ranging from red to ultraviolet light. The three most popular types of these lights are T5, T8, and T12. The T5 fluorescent grow light for aloe vera is the best one you can choose, as it has excellent performance.

Furthermore, if you don’t have enough space, feel free to switch to the Compact Fluorescent Light type as well, as it comes in multiple small bulbs fitting in one round flat bottom base. They are ideal for lighting these plants when they are on your desk at home or in the office. However, be careful as CFLs have a fairly high output and tend to emit a lot of heat, so it is advisable to move them away from the plants a bit to avoid damage.

Do plants have all aloe vera pups?

Light Emitting Diode Type of Grow Light for Aloe Vera (LED)

The LED grow light for aloe vera is one of the best options as it provides your favorite plant with specific wavelengths of light. How does it actually affect your plant? It is very simple, aloe vera, like most succulents and other houseplants, cares only for the blue and red light.

This type of light gear toward providing your plants with a very narrow spectrum of light saves energy and does not threaten damage due to heat. Now you will probably be wondering which of these two types the best grow light for aloe vera is. According to the data collected, LEDs are generally better and more cost-effective than fluorescent lights, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t decide to buy them if you prefer fluorescent lights.

How Long Should I Leave The Grow Lights On?

This plant, like most other succulents, has its growing and dormant periods. It is mostly winter, and during this period these plants have lower light requirements. When it comes to growing indoors, aloe vera will generally take as much light as it can get.

Furthermore, aloe vera needs darkness to maintain a healthy growth cycle but also requires at least six hours of sunlight a day to thrive and it is therefore recommended to leave the lights on for 12-14 hours to mimic the proper cycle of day and night.

To Wrap Things Up

Providing your house plants with a suitable and sufficient amount of sunlight is of utmost importance because only in this way will you be able to increase their flowering rate. Aloe vera is one of the most beautiful houseplants; it is also easy to grow, incredibly adaptable, and quite low-maintenance. It thrives best at temperatures between 21 and 29 degrees Celsius during the day and 15 degrees at night.

In case of lack of natural sunlight, which is actually a regular occurrence for cold winter days, feel free to turn to use grow light for aloe vera.

We hope you found this article useful, and if you have any questions, feel free to let us know.

Related article Why Aloe Vera Smells Bad?

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Best Plant Food For Succulents: 4 Commendable Options Worth Trying

Learn how to choose the best plant food for succulents, and let your plant thrive.

Thick, supple, and firm leaves are the main characteristics of every healthy succulent. Of course, regular watering and avoiding direct contact with bright sunlight will help your houseplants to grow. Truth be told, they still won’t thrive, and that should be your primary goal.

Wondering why? This is because succulents like all other plants in the world need feeding, but in smaller quantities and with an appropriate time interval. Although these are low-maintenance houseplants, using the best plant food for succulents is guaranteed to take your beauties to a new, enviable level.

With so many types of fertilizer available, it can be quite difficult to narrow down your options and choose the right one. Stay with us and learn how to provide your plant with everything it needs to thrive.

Our Top Picks: Best Plant Food For Succulents

Now that you know what its value is, it’s time to tell you a few sentences about our favorites. So let’s get to the point.

EarthPods Premium Cactus & Succulent Plant Food

If you’re looking for the best plant food for succulents that is organic and at the same time easy to use, you need to look no further than EarthPods. This fertilizer is formulated to be suitable for all types of succulents as well as different types of cacti, aloe, jades, and other arid plants.

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As for its composition, it contains numerous natural nutrients, minerals, natural growth hormones, and humic + fulvic acids. However, we mustn’t forget to mention that this EarthPods product also contains a diverse population of beneficial soil microbes, which are found in a form immediately available to plants.

Satisfied customers claim that the shift in their plants was visible almost immediately, and some of the most noticeable changes include vibrant colors, better overall stem development, and robust root growth.

As for the application, it is very easy to use. All you have to do is put the pods into the soil, in case you are using bark or pebbles, open the pod and apply its content evenly near the succulent plant. It is recommended to use 1 to 2 pods for small, 2 to 4 for slightly larger, and 4 to 8 for large succulents.

The product is pet and child safe, as well as eco-friendly.

Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food

This affordable synthetic liquid fertilizer from Miracle-Gro is rightly considered the best plant food for succulents. It is a great choice for every type of succulents, cacti, jade, and aloe, primarily because of the special formulation that nourishes your houseplants and shows results almost instantly after the first application.

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It is quite a practical product as it can be used in two ways, mixed with water or applied directly to the ground. Furthermore, the fertilizer comes in interesting packaging, i.e. in a bottle with a pump that allows you to more easily measure the amount of fertilizer to use. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, use 2 pumps for small pots containing your succulents and 5 for pots larger than six inches wide.

Dr. Earth Organic Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer

Dr. Earth’s Premium Gold formula is a certified, organic fertilizer designed for almost all plants, from succulents to flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. It is enough to mix a small amount of this best plant food for succulents into the soil before planting. This way, your plants will be able to grow and thrive in a nutrient-rich environment.

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This granular fertilizer is formulated to release nutrients immediately but to act gradually over the next few weeks. According to the manufacturer’s instructions sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Dr. Earth’s Premium Gold formula for every 6 inches of pot diameter; this pack should be enough to feed 20 1-gallon plants for up to 2 months.

Jobe’s 06703 Succulent Fertilizer Spikes

The slow-release formula of this Jobe’s best plant food for succulents is suitable for all gardeners who do not want much commitment and prefer fertilizing once per season only. This product comes in a spike form and is made from certified organic ingredients which makes it pet and child friendly.

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Keep in mind that the NPK ratio is 2-8-8, which actually means that this fertilizer is not the best option for those succulents that require extremely large amounts of nitrogen. Accordingly, inquire about the nutritional needs of your houseplants before you get fertilizer.

Regarding the application of this formula, the manufacturer recommends the use of one spike for plants in pots up to 4-inch diameters and two spikes for pots up to 8 inches in diameter or more.

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Truth be told, it is no wonder that many believe that succulents do not need fertilization at all. After all, the first thing most people think of is that they are low-maintenance and able to thrive in the desert where not-so-friendly weather conditions prevail. That is why it is important to know (and understand) that fertilizer is a link that is often missing in order for these plants to grow successfully and more vibrant.

What do you think is the best plant food for succulents? Write to us in the section below.

Can I use Miracle Gro on succulents?

Read more: Are West-Facing Windows Good For Plants?

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How To Choose The Best Pot For A Jade Plant / 5 Simple Rules That Guarantee Success

Learn everything you need to know about the best pot for a jade plant.

The jade plant (Crassula ovata), commonly known as the money tree, is a tree-like plant native to South Africa and Mozambique. Truth be told, this is one of the world’s most popular houseplants, as its thick and glossy green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room.

It makes an excellent houseplant because it can grow and happily thrive in a pot for many years by following a few simple rules. Therefore, stay with us and learn how to choose the best pot for a jade plant.

5 Short Rules For Choosing The Best Pot For A Jade Plant

Rule number 1: A Pot With A Stable Base

One of the essential things to consider when choosing the best pot for a jade plant is the base of the pot. This is because a stable base allows your plant to reach some greater heights and in addition form a beautiful bush with their leaves.

Namely, as the plant grows and becomes heavier and heavier, the pot should be stable enough to withstand the weight. Don’t be fooled because this plant can sometimes grow into small trees or shrubs reaching a height of up to eight feet, and if the pot is not stable enough it will most likely tip over. This is by no means desirable as it can greatly damage the plant.

Furthermore, almost all experts will agree that pruning is crucial in the growing process, but we believe that in some situations the pot has a bigger role than pruning itself.

Do jade plants like big or small pots?

Rule number 2: A Pot With Good Drainage

The most important rule of thumb when picking the best pot for a jade plant is to try to find a pot with excellent drainage. This rule applies in any case, whether you plan to keep your plant indoors or outdoors. Without proper drainage, your jade plant is doomed. A pot with plenty of drainage holes at the bottom will give your plant what it needs to survive and thrive.

Don’t forget the fact that root rot is a very common disease among these houseplants, and accordingly, if the pot isn’t draining out the excess water fast enough, your plant is in big trouble.

Rule number 3: The Size Of The Pot

Choosing the best pot for a jade plant goes far beyond just drainage and a solid base, moreover, it also includes choosing a pot whose size suits the needs and requirements of your plant.

Truth be told, these plants have a fairly small root system, so choosing a pot size won’t give you too much trouble. If you choose a much larger pot, it will only increase the soil volume and hold much more moisture than your jade plant really needs. As already mentioned, the accumulation of moisture is not good because it exposes your plant to a higher risk of root rot.

As for the best pot for a jade plant, try to choose one that is approximately one or two inches larger than the plant’s root ball. Also, don’t forget the drainage holes, one at the base will be quite enough to drain excess water.

Does Jade need a deep pot?

Rule number 4: The Best Material

In short, different vessels are made of different materials and have different purposes. Nowadays, you can easily find dishes made of clay, terracotta, ceramics, and even plastic, so everyone can find what suits their wallet best.

So, what material is the best pot for a jade plant made of? There is no good or bad material as long as you make sure the pot has suitable drainage holes in the bottom. You can choose the material that best suits your personal preferences.

However, most gardeners prefer to use terracotta or clay pots. Various clay pots absorb moisture quickly while helping the potting mix dry out. Meanwhile, the absolute best pot for a jade plant, but in principle, every other succulent or cactus is an unglazed, unpainted, and untreated terracotta pot.

Rule number 5: Heavy Vs. Light

Many hobbyists, especially those just starting to grow succulents wonder if they should go for a heavy or relatively light pot. We suggest that you always choose at least a slightly heavy pot to prevent your plant from toppling over.

How deep should a jade plant pot be?

However, that doesn’t mean you have to run away from lighter pots if they’re more in line with your aesthetics. For instance, think of this as an opportunity to express your creativity. You can add a little bit of sand, gravel, or pebbles to the bottom of the pot, as the weight will go a long way in helping weigh down your jade plant. This is a great thing if you have pets who love toppling things over.

To Conclude

The journey of successful growing begins with choosing the best pot for the jade plant. People who do not like this hobby or are just beginners think that activities like watering and feeding are a bit strenuous and tricky; however, a large part of them can be avoided if you manage to find the best pot for the jade plant.

That would be it, these were our best tips, now it’s time to share yours! Write them to us in the section below. We look forward to reading.

Take a look at this article as well

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Are Elephant Ears Toxic? Dangerous Enough To Cause Death & Safe Enough To Consume

Are Elephant Ears toxic? Stay with us and find out the real truth about this plant.

 Elephant ears are tropical perennial plants that are grown mostly because of their attractive, heart- or arrow-shaped leaves with decorative veining, rather than their flowers. Such leaves are very reminiscent of the ears of this large animal, hence the name of the plant.

Indoor plants play many useful roles in our home environment, and most provide visual interest to the home and purify the air. Most of them are edible or have some medical purpose, but don’t be fooled because some houseplants are known to be poisonous. Many wonders are Elephant Ears toxic. Therefore, keep reading and find out the answer.

About The Plant

Before we answer the question of the day “are Elephant Ears toxic”, let us first introduce you to this beauty.

The Elephant ear belongs to the genus Colocasia, it is a tuberous, frost-tender perennial that originates from the tropics of Asia. We must not forget to mention that this interesting name is common for several species in three plant genera, namely Colocasia, Alocasia, and Xanthosoma.

Since these are plants that are accustomed to wet areas with the filtered sun of a tropical forest, we can say that they will grow well in moist soils as well as in partial shade. They will also thrive in the garden bed, as long as they receive regular moisture and don’t dry out. So keep an eye on them regularly during these hot summer days.

Are all elephant ear plants poisonous?

As for Hardiness Zones, this plant can be left outside all year round and treated as a perennial only when growing in zones 7 to 11. If you plan to grow it in colder regions, the rules are different because Elephant Ears are usually treated as annuals and discarded at the end of the growing season.

These fast-growing plants will achieve their full size within two months, and can eventually reach lengths of 3 feet on top of 3- to 7-foot stems. Their leaves can reach 3 feet long and 2 feet wide when grown in warmer climates such as tropical. When it comes to colder climates, they will remain smaller but still have impressive leaves whose colors can range from lime green to almost black.

Now that we’ve taken a closer look at this amazing plant, it’s time to answer the question “are Elephant Ears toxic”. So let’s get to the point.

Question Of The Day: Are Elephant Ears Toxic?

Did you know that this plant serves as a major food source for many countries in Asia? It is, namely, a major food crop for both humans and farm animals. Interestingly, Elephant Ears are a traditional dish consumed in Hawaiian luaus, and we should not skip mentioning that the corms form the basis for Poi, one of the most popular Hawaiian dishes.

The Elephant Ears plant contains calcium oxalate, or oxalic acid, the same toxin found in rhubarb and Dieffenbachia leaves. Since this chemical compound contains sharp crystals, many are wondering if are Elephant Ears toxic. – The answer is yes.

All parts of these plants are considered toxic to humans and animals, and in addition, can cause serious illness and even death if consumed in excessively large amounts.

So, what’s going on here? How is it even possible that something so poisonous can be a major source of food for thousands of people? This plant is not poisonous only when fully cooked, so any form of consumption in its raw form should be avoided. During the heat treatment process, the above crystals break down, and the plant, therefore, becomes safe for consumption. Also, keep in mind that some species are more toxic than others and that only the least toxic plants are chosen for consumption.

Safety & First Aid

Now that you know the answer to the question “are Elephant Ears toxic,” it’s time to say a few words about safety and first aid.

We must first emphasize that caution is the best measure of prevention. It is not recommended to keep this plant within the reach of children and pets. The leaves and stems are the most toxic parts namely the most poisonous parts of this plant and even the slightest contact can cause skin irritation and itching. Be careful because if the sap comes into your eyes, your eyes will burn for the next few hours.

As for pets and children and accidental swallowing of leaves, the first symptoms are a tingly or burning feeling in the mouth or lips. We must mention that the fatality rate is very low, but be careful anyway.

Are elephant ears toxic to dogs?

If you suspect your child or someone close to you has ingested elephant ear leaves, seek emergency medical help as soon as possible. Maybe even near you, there is a local poison control center or the national poison control hotline, try to get in touch with them too. Don’t by any means force vomiting. In case of contact with the eyes flush the eyes with clean water. If you suspect that your pet has eaten even the smallest piece of this plant, contact your vet right away.

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To Conclude – Are Elephant Ears Toxic?

As we have seen, the Elephant Ear is a highly toxic plant that can do a lot of damage to both humans and your pets. Fortunately, this plant is rarely fatal, and almost any death can be avoided with preventive measures.

That would be it, now you know the only correct answer to the question “are Elephant Ears toxic.” If you have any questions, please let us know in the section below.

Also read Why Are My Hens and Chicks Growing Tall?

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Activated Charcoal For Planting; 4 Compelling Things You May Not Have Known About This Amazing Substance

Find out all the interesting details about the benefits of using activated charcoal for planting.

To help your plants grow successfully and healthily, there are various strategies you can try. This can mean using a certain type of fertilizer or moving plants to another part of the garden or house. You know how people say that prevention is better than cure, so one of the prevention measures is the use of activated charcoal for planting. It can have countless, amazing benefits for plants, of course as long as you use the right kind of charcoal.

Therefore, stay with us and find out what it is and how to use activated charcoal for planting.

What Is Activated Charcoal?

Activated charcoal is a black, odorless, flavorless powder that has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. Nowadays, it is most commonly used in medical facilities to treat drug overdoses, and in severe cases even as an emergency anti-poison remedy.

We must not forget to mention some of its main benefits, the most famous being the reduction of gas and bloating, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving kidney function. In addition, some claim it can whiten your teeth, filter the water, and some even swear that activated charcoal can cure a hangover.

Now let’s move on to chemistry. Activated charcoal is actually charcoal that has been treated with oxygen at very high temperatures, all to make it as porous as possible. As for this process, ie treatment, it basically changes charcoal’s internal structure, reducing the size of pores and increasing the surface area. In addition, we must note that it helps in the absorption of chemical impurities and pollutants.

Activated charcoal has recently gained great popularity in the healthcare and cosmetics industries. Namely, it can be found in various preparations such as air purifiers, capsules, creams, gels, face masks, toothpaste, body cleansers, soaps, and many other things.

Click here to find out why science calls it a miracle cure.

How do you use activated charcoal in potted plants?

Does Activated Charcoal Always Remain Active?

The easiest way to answer this question is with a simple example. You can look at activated charcoal as a classic sponge that absorbs all these toxins and gases. Like any other sponge, charcoal soon becomes saturated, and therefore we can conclude that it doesn’t have infinite buffering capacity.

Now that you are familiar with this substance, it is time to say a little more about activated charcoal for planting. So, let’s get to the point.

Activated Charcoal For Planting

As we have already mentioned, activated charcoal is believed to have numerous health benefits for human health and even more for plants.

Wondering how this is even possible? Well, using charcoal at the base of your plant pot can help prevent you from overwatering your plant. In addition, this substance is known for its ability to keep pests away, as well as to minimize the chances of developing fungi and bacteria.

Is charcoal good for plant roots?

What Are The Best Types Of Activated Charcoal For Planting?

This substance is especially good to use for plants that are growing in terrariums, cachepots, and other closed-in planting mechanisms. Accordingly, we have to emphasize that the use of activated charcoal for planting succulents is one of the best decisions you can make. Experts recommend it because it is known for its ability to absorb extra water in plants.

Apart from activated charcoal, there is also a horticultural one, which is a pretty good choice for plants that prefer moist environments, the most famous of which are orchids and ferns. This type of charcoal removes stagnant water, while also increasing oxygen levels as well as the presence of beneficial microbes.

When we compare the main features of horticultural and activated charcoal for planting, we come to the conclusion that the horticultural one doesn’t absorb water as well as the activated one but it still has very great and numerous benefits for the soil.

Finally, we must not forget to mention the third type, ie aquarium charcoal, which is known for its ability to remove organic and inorganic materials that could adversely affect the quality of water in the tank, all by absorbing pollutants and acting as a filter.

Does The Use Of Activated Charcoal For Planting Affect The Soil Itself?

To be able to fully understand how many benefits activated carbon for planting has, it is necessary to look at what charcoal does for the soil itself. Activated charcoal is known for its ability to remove odors, impurities, and toxins from the soil, and acts as an absorbent in situations of excessive watering, all because of its high porosity properties.

Furthermore, another positive aspect of activated charcoal for planting is that it balances the pH of the soil. Do you remember how we mentioned at the beginning that it is given to people who have overdosed? Activated charcoal does the same thing with plants because it absorbs and neutralizes all the nasty bacteria found in the soil.

The Bottom Line

Activated charcoal is a natural remedy with various uses, the most common of which are emergency overdose or anti-poison treatment. Its toxin-absorbing properties have a wide range of applications, from medical, and cosmetic to horticultural.

This substance is so porous and absorbing that it has the ability to bind to different types of molecules, ions, or atoms and remove them from dissolved substances. When it comes to using activated charcoal for planting, it rids the soil of impurities, repels insects, prevents mold and odors, absorbs excess water, and prevents the formation of root rot.

If you have any questions, please let us know in the section below.

Take a look at this article as well.

What type of charcoal is best for plants?

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