Problems With Aloe Vera Leaves

Identification

• Aloe veras have green leaves, although, their color can range from a dark to yellowish-green. Some plants also contain white markings. Younger plants have spotted leaves that turn into a uniform light green as they mature. Their leaves, which have soft spines on their edges, grow in a rosette design and grow up to 2 feet long, according to Union County College. As plants mature, they produce an 18-inch stalk, that grows from the middle of the rosette. Yellow cylindrical-shaped flowers grow on top of the stalks.

Overwatering

• Overwatering is the main problem in growing these plants. When an aloe vera receives too much water its leaves become soft and dull. To treat the plant, let it dry out and then lightly water it. Only water it when the soil is completely dry. Water them every other week in the summer, advises the University of California Davis. Rainfall and cool weather during winter months offer them plenty of water for survival.

Leaf Discoloration

• Sometimes aloe veras can become discolored, developing reddish-brown leaves. Besides excess water, leaf discoloration can be due to excess sun or root damage. Other causes include stress, environmental changes, soil or a particular irrigation schedule. Make adjustments such as moving your plant either in or out of shade or giving it less water, and then watch it closely for two weeks to note changes.

Considerations

• Aloe veras, which are acclimated to hot weather, are mostly cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical climates receiving much sunlight. Because these plants consist of 95 percent water, they can’t be grown outdoors in cold climates. Although they can endure drought, they do better when watered. They need more irrigation in summer due to moisture lost from heat.

Warnings

• The sap part of aloe vera plants is poisonous. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, red urine and diarrhea, as well as skin irritation. If consumed, the plant leaves only cause low toxicity, including minor skin irritation with symptoms lasting just a few minutes. Don’t use protective plastic sheets for frost protection because it encourages heat loss. Instead, use natural fiber blankets, paper bags, sheets or frost protective cloths placed on top of the plants.