Expert: Greg Simpson - 5/7/2006

Question
Greg:

My husband and I have an aloe plant that was given to us by his grandmother.  It is 10 years old and not doing to well.  We had it at my mother's home for some time and while it was there, become very unhealthy.  The "leaves" are turning brown and mushy and drooping down.  My husband has pulled all of the dying parts off of the plant and tried replanting it now a few times.  We are desprate to save this plant.

Thank you

Tonya Knox

Answer
Dear Tonya,

Unfortunately I have some bad news. What you are describing is either rot (from over watering) or rot (caused by freeze damage), or possibly both. What you have to look for is "crown rot", which means the the very center leaves (the newest ones) are easily pulled out. If that is the case, the chances of this plant surviving are slim to none.

However, if it is the lower (and older) leaves that are the problem, and the trunk (stem) of the plant is still firm, then it may have a chance. If the trunk of the plant is soft, then there is no chance it will survive. Water only when the soil is dry. Some Aloes can be very particular about that. If you know what variety of Aloe it is, I may be able to give you a little better answer. Good luck.

Sincerely,

Greg