Expert: Maureen - 12/4/2010

Question
I read a previous answer to this question, but need a bit more info...I live in Minn. I have 2 plants that were left out a few days to long. They froze(it was about 28 one night) and I need to know if they are a lost cause. The leaves are mostly brown with dried tips and ooze a red fluid(bleeding). One still has a firm center, the other just came apart. Both plants are crowded into 8" pots and the longest leaves are 12". All the leaves feel full of fluid. Sorry, no camera for a picture. Thank you for your help...  

Answer
Dear Matthew,

Well, that's upsetting!.  I think at least with the plant that has a firm center you'll have to take a wait and see approach.  It sounds like the other is a goner, tho aloe do develop pups under the soil so all may not be lost.

I would let them go into dormancy: cool - aroudn 60 degrees or so, natural light, no water and remove leaves that have open areas that could get fungus or other disease.  Dust the cuts with a fungicide ( you can use Rootone if you can't find a powder fungicide).  Really let them dry out.  I wouldn't begin to even gradually water them till spring unless you see new growth, and even with that I would be VERY sparing till spring.  If either or both survive you'll need to repot in smaller pots and get rid of any dead roots.

Even the plant that fell apart may show some signs of life in the spring if there are pups under the soil.

Just watch the plants for disease in the meantime.

If you have any other questions don't hesitate to write.

Maureen

I look forward to hearing from you.  Thanks.