Expert: Greg Simpson - 7/2/2007

Question
Well first off, I have an aloe vera plant that I raised in my bio class for the whole 06-07 school year. It grew great and looked fantastic. It's planted in a pot that drans well and it stayed in doors up until June, which is when I brought it home, and it has been on my front porch ever since. However, the problem is that on a few of the longer stems, they are starting to turn a brownish color and some are curling in. Two others seem like they have little gel inside them, and one stem is bent and it hangs over. These are the negative characteristics I have noticed in my plant. The plant is still producing more stems as I've noticed more forming in the center. I know all about the amount of watering as I have raised this plant all year. I've debated cutting some tips but I am unsure. Please give me some possible solutions to helping my plant get back to full health if possible. Thanks a bunch.

Cody

Answer
Cody,

It sounds like it is either under watered or may have some root damage. The following website has some good care instructions for your plant.

http://www.thegardenhelper.com/aloe~vera.html

I would also add some "Superthrive" to your watering routine for the next few months. It is the best fertilizer/shock reducer that I have ever used. Also, on the stems that are doing poorly, pull on the center most leaves. If the pull out easily, go ahead and remove that stem, as rot has set in and you don't want it to spread to the other branches. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg