Potted aloe keeps getting root rot? 2 simple steps can save it

Aloe is an especially easy plant to grow, but why does aloe keep getting root rot? Generally speaking, root rot is mostly caused by improper watering and waterlogging. Should you just throw away an aloe with root rot? Not necessarily, 2 simple steps can still save it.

Aloe often looks droopy, and the leaves feel soft to the touch. If you do not dig out its roots, you may not even know that root rot is the cause. At this point, we need to repot the aloe, which is also a good chance to check whether its roots have rotted.

If the aloe's roots are indeed suffering from root rot caused by waterlogging, we can do these 2 simple steps, and it may still be saved.

First, do the pruning

Use a sterilized utility knife to cut off all the rotted aloe roots, along with any other rotten leaves and so on. After the wounds dry, it can be replanted.

Repot with fresh soil

Replant the pruned aloe, and of course change to new soil. For the new soil, you can choose a very loose sandy soil or leaf mold, and sterilize it by sun exposure. Then add a layer of loofah sponge or small tile pieces at the bottom of the pot, which makes waterlogging even less likely, and root rot less likely in the future too.

Do not water the newly planted aloe at first, otherwise it will easily get root rot again. Its leaves are thick and full of moisture, so it does not dry out easily. Wait another 4~5 days before giving water.

Generally speaking, aloe itself is relatively drought-tolerant, so during our regular watering, we must wait until the potting soil is completely dry before watering. Sometimes, even if it is not watered for half a month, it is fine.