Plant guide:ðŸŒĩ Aloe Vera
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Roots

Root Rot in Aloe Vera

Commonly affects: Aloe vera (Aloe Vera)

The plant feels loose in its pot, leaves turn mushy at the base, and roots appear brown, black, or hollow rather than firm and white when checked.

Potential Causes

  1. 1Overwatering, by far the most common cause of Aloe decline
  2. 2Poorly-draining soil retaining too much moisture around roots
  3. 3Pots without adequate drainage holes

Solution Steps

  1. 1Remove the plant from its pot and cut away all soft, dark roots with a sterilised blade
  2. 2Let the plant dry out and callus for a couple of days before repotting
  3. 3Repot into a fast-draining cactus/succulent mix with added grit or pumice
  4. 4Water far less frequently going forward, letting soil dry out completely between waterings

Prevention Tip

Aloe stores water in its leaves specifically so it doesn't need frequent watering — when in doubt, wait longer rather than watering again.

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