Aloe Cactus Is Mushy & Wilted

Causes

• Root and stem rots on aloe usually occur because of overwatering and not from disease organisms, although fungal infection may speed the process once the rot has weakened the aloe. Overwatering is the main cause of soft, mushy leaves and roots. As a succulent, aloe stores water in its leaves and wet soil results in too much moisture, which causes the roots to suffocate and begin rotting. As the roots decline, the leaves also begin to rot. An aloe suffering from rot often produces a foul odor, especially around the base of the plant, as the roots decay.

Prevention

• Proper care prevents most rot problems. Providing aloe with a full six to eight hours of daily sun results in healthy foliage and prevents moisture from building up on the leaves. The soil, whether its in a pot or a garden bed, must drain exceptionally well. Sandy locations provide optimum drainage. Mulches may also retain too much moisture around the base of the aloe. Outdoor plants rarely require watering, while indoor plants only need watering if the soil dries out almost completely.

Repotting

• Once an aloe suffers from root rot, its chances for recovery are slim, but you may be able to save the plant by promptly repotting it into dry soil. Select a pot the same size or 1 to 2 inches larger than the old container, and only use a pot with bottom drainage holes. A cactus potting soil mix or a mixture of equal parts soil and coarse sand provides ample drainage. Trim off mushy or rotten roots, and remove any dead or rotten leaves. Plant the aloe at the same depth as in its old pot. Water only lightly, when the soil is completely dry, otherwise the rot may return. Outdoor plants may also survive with the same treatment, if you move them to a better draining location.

Water Concerns

• The rot will recur if the original cause isn't addressed. If you grow your aloe in a pot, consider using a clay one, because it wicks excess moisture away from the soil more quickly than a plastic pot. After irrigation, water drains out and collects in the drip tray beneath the pot and will soak back into the soil, causing rot if you don't empty the tray promptly. Overly humid locations can also result in rot problems. Outdoor aloes must have well-drained soil. Avoid planting in low-lying beds where water tends to accumulate or pool after rain or irrigation, and plant the aloe out of the path of automatic sprinklers.