Why Are Aloe Vera Leaves Shriveled? Causes and Solutions

Aloe vera is one of the most common plants in our daily life, and many people grow it at home. Besides its ornamental value, aloe vera also has beauty and skin-care benefits, and can even be used in cooking. Today Qinnong Net introduces a problem often encountered when growing aloe vera: why aloe vera becomes shriveled.

1. Lack of Water

If aloe vera becomes shriveled, the most likely cause is a lack of water, because aloe vera leaves need water to stay plump, and a water shortage easily leads to shriveling. In this case, you should place the aloe vera in a shady spot to reduce water loss, and water it promptly, which will help it recover quickly. Also note that during cultivation you should avoid exposing aloe vera to scorching sun, otherwise the high evaporation and sunscald will cause the leaves to shrivel.

2. Potassium Deficiency

Improper fertilizing can cause aloe vera to lack certain elements, and if aloe vera is deficient in potassium, the leaves will also become shriveled. When aloe vera lacks potassium, not only do the leaves shrivel, but the shriveled parts also take on a scorched, withered appearance. At this point, you can supplement the aloe vera with potassium by applying more potassium fertilizer.

3. Root Damage

If a few leaves of the aloe vera become shriveled while the rest remain intact, you should consider whether the roots have been damaged; this situation often occurs after repotting. At this point, you can check whether the roots have separated from the stem, or whether the leaves have been injured.

4. Unsuitable Potting Soil

Unsuitable soil can also cause aloe vera leaves to shrivel. If you find that a newly purchased aloe vera that has just been repotted grew well before repotting but became shriveled right after repotting, then after ruling out root damage you should consider whether the soil is unsuitable. If the problem turns out to be the soil, it is best to change the soil promptly. The soil for growing aloe vera can be made by mixing garden soil, river sand and leaf mold, and be sure to ensure the soil's air permeability and drainage.

The above is Qinnong Net's introduction to the causes of and solutions for shriveled aloe vera leaves, and we hope it is of some help to you. If you still have questions about aloe vera, please follow our website for more!