Aloe vera is a widely recognized plant, valued for its distinctive appearance and numerous applications, particularly in skincare and wellness. Its popularity stems from the plant’s succulent leaves, which contain a gel known for soothing properties. This versatile plant has become a common household item, and its accessibility is enhanced by its presence in major retail stores.
What to Expect: Aloe Vera Availability at Walmart
Walmart typically offers a selection of aloe vera plants, often found in the garden center or the indoor plant section. These live plants are usually available in smaller pot sizes, such as 2.5-inch or 4-inch containers, making them suitable for indoor cultivation. Beyond live plants, Walmart stores stock a wide array of aloe vera-based products. These items are commonly located in the health and beauty, pharmacy, or even the grocery aisles.
Choosing a Healthy Aloe Vera Plant at Walmart
When selecting an aloe vera plant, inspecting its overall health is important to ensure it thrives in your home. Look for leaves that are firm, thick, and fleshy, displaying a vibrant green color. Avoid plants with leaves that appear discolored, dried out, wrinkled, or mushy, as these can indicate stress or disease. The base of the plant should also feel firm, with no signs of softness or rot.
Examine the plant closely for any visible pests or unusual spots on the leaves. Healthy plants should be free from any such issues. Checking the soil is also a good practice; it should be dry or only slightly damp, rather than soggy. Overly wet soil can suggest poor drainage or overwatering, which may lead to root problems. Healthy roots, if visible through drainage holes, typically appear white or light tan.
Caring for Your New Walmart Aloe Vera Plant
Upon bringing your aloe vera plant home, providing the right environment is important for its continued health. Aloe vera thrives in bright, indirect light, so a spot near a window with filtered sunlight is often ideal. Direct, intense sunlight can cause the leaves to develop a white or light brown discoloration, indicating sunburn. If placing it outdoors during warmer months, gradually acclimate the plant to brighter conditions to prevent stress.
Proper watering is an important aspect of aloe vera care, as these plants are succulents and store water in their leaves. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, which is a common issue for aloe vera. When watering, do so thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, then discard any excess water in the saucer. The frequency of watering will depend on environmental factors like temperature and humidity, but deep watering every one to two weeks is sufficient when the soil is dry.
Using a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents is recommended. This type of soil ensures that water does not sit around the roots for too long. A terracotta pot can also be beneficial, as its porous nature helps the soil dry out more quickly. Aloe vera plants prefer temperatures between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit and are sensitive to frost, so they should be protected from cold drafts. Repotting is typically only necessary every two to three years or when the plant becomes root-bound, and choosing a new pot only one to two inches larger in diameter is advised.
Beyond the Plant: Other Aloe Vera Products at Walmart
Beyond live plants, Walmart carries a diverse range of manufactured products that incorporate aloe vera. Aloe vera gel is a popular item, frequently used for its soothing properties on skin irritations, minor burns, and sunburns. These gels often provide a cooling sensation and aid in skin recovery. Many skincare and personal care brands feature aloe vera as a primary ingredient in their formulations.
This includes moisturizers, lotions, and even some cosmetic products, leveraging aloe vera’s hydrating and calming effects. Aloe vera is also found in hair care products like shampoos and conditioners, contributing to scalp health and hair moisture. For internal use, aloe vera juice is available, often consumed for its reported digestive benefits.