Light Requirements
Aloe Vera loves bright, indirect sunlight. A south- or west-facing window is ideal. It can tolerate some direct sun, but too much can scorch the leaves, turning them a reddish-brown color.
Watering
Being a succulent, Aloe Vera is very drought-tolerant. The biggest mistake is overwatering. Water your Aloe deeply, but let the soil dry out completely between waterings. This might mean watering every 2-3 weeks, and even less in the winter.
Soil & Potting
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A pot with a drainage hole is essential. Terracotta pots are a great choice as they help wick away excess moisture from the soil.
Harvesting
To harvest the gel, choose a mature, outer leaf. Cut it at the base with a clean knife. The yellow latex that seeps out should be drained or washed off, as it can be a skin irritant. Then, you can slice open the leaf to access the clear, soothing gel inside.