Expert: Greg Simpson - 2/5/2006

Question
Greg - I bought an aloe plant from the nursery about 2 weeks ago.  It is about 2 feet wide at the bottom, and about 1 1/2 feet tall...decent size plant.  We planted it in the ground, surrounded by gravel.  There is no watering system.  I watered it when I planted it, and we watered it once since then.  The tips of the aloe are turning a reddish color, and some appear to be getting dry and curling up.  It is about 2 feet from a black wall, and gets some sun during the day.  temps about 60-70 during the day, getting down to mid 40's at night.  Over-watering?

Answer
Dear Jason,

Was the plant outside or in a greenhouse when you bought it? If it was in a greenhouse, it could be either from the drier climate or transplant shock. Plants generally go into shock for at least a few weeks and do not grow, which may have cuased your leaves to die back a little. Also, most Aloe's are hardy down to freezing, but if it was greenhouse grown or in a more tropical enviroment, it could also be from the cold.

Do not over water, especially after planting. I would not water but once a month now. Increase to every 2 weeks in mid summer. Be aware that Aloe leaves usually die from the tip inwards. So don't be alarmed if this happens down the road also. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg