Expert: Greg Simpson - 2/24/2004

Question
I have a small indoor aloe plant that has several smaller offshoots, my problem is that I can never seem to get it to grow.  And now the largest stalk (about 7" tall but only 1/2 wide) seems to be shrinking in the middle causing it to flop over.  I water it once a week with about three tablespoons of water.  Is that too much, not enough?  It is currently in a 4" pot.  I'd love to get this plant to grow nice and plump.

Thanks!

Answer
Dear Jamie,

There are only a few Aloes that will stand vertical, and those are considered "tree Aloes". They generally will not branch or produce offshoots until very large. Almost all other Aloes grow along the ground after being vertical for a short time.

Also, you are most likely overwatering your plant. It is a much better idea to water only when the soil dries out. That might be once a week or once a month depending on where you live and how humid it is there. Most Aloes are "drought resistant", which means they can go for extended time without water.

As for your plant being nice and plump, if your referring to the leaves, some Aloes have rather flat leaves while other are very plump. I would need to see a picture of yours to tell which kind it is, unless you know its Latin name. Let me know if you would like me to identify your plant. Hope this helps and good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg