Expert: Greg Simpson - 11/7/2007

Question
Hi Greg, I have an aloe plant indoors (not aloe vera, some other, light green type). It's been very happy for the last 6 months, but I just noticed that there is a black sticky substance flooding the bottom of the plant, which presumably comes from the bottom leaves, which appear as though they are drying out. The top leaves seem healthy. I water it about every 2 weeks and it's been fine, the main change has been that it's been getting much colder lately (it's by a window and we haven't got double glazing). When I saw the black substance I panicked and watered it even though I watered it last week, now I worry I shouldn't have done. I got rid of the very dry leaves in the bottom and moved it near a radiator - would this help? Thanks a lot, Nili.

Answer
Nili,

Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. Generally that black ooze indicates rot, which in Aloe's usually means over watering. Aloe's are very sensitive to over watering, especially in winter. They are also sensitive to cold, generally anything less than 40 degrees is bad.

Let the soil dry completely between waterings. Remove the bottom leaves and squeeze the stem. If it is soft, then it is time to get a new plant. If it is firm, then you may be in luck. Hopefully this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg