Expert: Greg Simpson - 7/21/2006

Question
I have a plant that is about 4 years old. I have to keep transplanting it because the root gets too long and it begins to fall out of the pot. I transplanted it again last week, and sepatated some of the off shoots into another pot because they were starting to brown on the bottom. I neglect the plant so I know it isn't getting over watered but now some of the leaves have lost there color and others have turned blood red and side and are seeping. What can I do to save it?

Answer
Dear Jamie,

Check the "trunk" of the plant. If it is soft, then your plant really can't be saved. Sometimes damage in succulents can happen months before they show signs of being sick. I just lost an Aloe with nearly identical synptoms, but it was caused by heat rather than overwatering. Aloes can be touchy because they are from the southern hemisphere, which means our seasons are all backwards, which makes them very picky about watering and at which time they are watered.

If the trunk is still firm, you may be able to take a cutting, however Aloes are very difficult to root. Let me know the condition of the trunk and I'll be able to give you a better answer.

Sincerely,

Greg