Aloe vera is a resilient crop, well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments due to its nature as a Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) plant, a unique adaptation that allows it to minimize water loss. The water requirements and irrigation practices for aloe should focus on maintaining optimal plant growth, preventing over-irrigation, and ensuring water availability at critical stages. You should note that every field is unique. General rules may apply, but you should do your own research, consider climate conditions and soil texture, and consult with your agronomist before deciding on your irrigation plan.
Aloe Vera's Resilience to Water Stress
Aloe vera is remarkably resilient to water stress, making it suitable for cultivation in regions prone to drought. Despite its drought tolerance, moderate irrigation at critical growth stages can significantly enhance the quality and quantity of the yield. For instance, researchers observed that low soil water content reduced the fresh weight and growth rate of aloe leaves, underscoring the importance of maintaining an adequate water supply.
In pot cultivation, aloe has been found to have high water use efficiency, with studies showing a water use ratio of 54 grams of water per gram of dry matter, making it one of the most efficient plants in terms of water consumption.
Water Requirements of Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, as a CAM plant, regulates its water usage by opening its stomata at night to absorb carbon dioxide, thus reducing water loss through transpiration during the day. This water conservation mechanism allows it to survive in regions with limited water availability, where other crops may struggle. Aloe also stores water in its fleshy leaves, providing an internal reserve that helps the plant endure dry periods or droughts.
However, despite its drought resistance, aloe still requires periodic rainfall or irrigation to replenish its water reserves and sustain continuous growth and abequent gel production. The frequency and amount of water provided depend largely on the climatic conditions, soil properties, and growth stage of the plant. In regions with dry seasons, irrigation becomes essential to support growth, particularly in commercial cultivation, where consistent gel production is required.
Research indicates that a water deficit can significantly impair aloe growth, reducing the number of leaves, suckers, and overall plant biomass. In an experiment, applying 15% of the reference evapotranspiration (ET0) led to maximum biomass productivity, highlighting the aloe's relatively low but precise water requirements.
Irrigation Systems and Practices
The irrigation method chosen for aloe vera largely depends on local environmental conditions, water availability, and the cultivation scale. Both rainfed and irrigated systems can be employed in open-field settings, but proper irrigation is particularly critical during dry months.
Irrigation Timing, Volume and Frequency
It is crucial to irrigate immediately after planting aloe vera suckers to ensure their establishment. Subsequent irrigations should follow at intervals of 2-3 weeks during the summer or dry periods. Typically, 4-6 irrigations per year are sufficient for proper growth in arid conditions. In some cases, light irrigation is recommended after each harvest of aloe leaves to support recovery and further leaf production.
Research conducted in arid zones found that applying 20 mm (0.78 inches) of water per hour for 3 hours once per week effectively increased aloe leaf and gel production. However, care should be taken to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can damage the plant’s collar and roots, leading to rot. Therefore, managing irrigation volumes carefully is essential to preventing overwatering.
During the rainy season, irrigation is generally unnecessary, and aloe can thrive on the natural precipitation. However, supplemental irrigation may be needed to maintain healthy growth in regions with erratic or insufficient rainfall.
Irrigation Methods
Aloe vera can be irrigated through various methods, including rain-fed systems, furrow irrigation, and modern sprinkler or drip irrigation systems. Sprinkler and drip irrigation are often the most efficient, providing the necessary moisture without causing waterlogging.
For commercial cultivation, especially in water-scarce regions, the integration of automated irrigation systems can help regulate water delivery based on soil moisture levels and plant needs. This approach ensures optimal water use, avoids unnecessary wastage, and promotes consistent crop yields.
References
- Singh, A., Verma, K., Kumar, D., Lothe, N. B., Kumar, A., Chaudhary, A., ... & Singh, S. (2021). Optimized irrigation regime and planting technique improve yields and economics in aloe vera [Aloe barbadensis (Miller)]. Industrial Crops and Products, 167, 113539.
- Silva, H., Sagardia, S., Seguel, O., Torres, C., Tapia, C., Franck, N., & Cardemil, L. (2010). Effect of water availability on growth and water use efficiency for biomass and gel production in Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis M.). Industrial Crops and Products, 31(1), 20-27.
- https://nopr.niscpr.res.in/bitstream/123456789/9406/1/NPR%203(2)%2085-87.pdf
- https://www.moice.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/ALOE-VERA-CULTIVATION.pdf
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2016.01410/full
Learn more about Aloe cultivation
Aloe Plant Information and Variety Selection
Aloe Vera Uses and Health Benefits
Growing Aloe in Your Backyard
Aloe Soil Requirements, Soil Preparation and Planting
Aloe Nutrient Needs & Fertilizer Requirements
Aloe Yield, Harvest, Storage, and Post-Harvest Processing
Aloe Common Pests, Diseases, and Weed Control
