Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/31/2007

Question
I have an aloe plant that is about 15 years old.  I finally transplanted it about 2 years ago and it has not stopped growing "babies" ever since.  The main plant seems to be vining out of the pot.  The bottom leaves have dried up and fallen off.  The truck of the plant is about 4" long and up out of the soil.  I'm afraid to do anything because I don't want to loose the main plant.  Any ideas?  Thanks!

Answer
Louise,,

Everything you have described sounds normal. Probably the reason it has stopped growing "pups" is two fold. First, when ever a plant is transplanted, it goes into shock. Secondly, it may be focusing on regrowing its roots, rather than what is above the soil.

With Aloe's, as long as the "crown" is OK (that's were all of the new leaves come from), it should be in good shape. If an Aloe starts to rot for whatever reason, the leaves at the crown will pull out. If the trunk is still very firm, that is also a signal that everything is still OK. Obviously if you have had this plant for 15 years, you are doing something right. Don't worry and don't change how you are taking care of it.

Sincerely,

Greg