If you have overwatered your aloe vera and the plant is now rotting, you must use appropriate measures and tools to save the growth. The most important tips are here.

In a nutshell

  • Avoiding waterlogging is the best option
  • Rotting can also be due to cold or humidity
  • Saving is possible
  • Rapid use of the aids required
  • Ideally, combine support measures

prevention

Ideally, the culture conditions should be tailored to the aloe vera in such a way that the plant does not rot. The following are important for this:

An aloe vera plant must never be watered too much, otherwise it will rot.
  • low humidity
  • water only as needed
  • sufficiently warm location
  • Ensure drainage, for example through a drainage layer
  • choose a suitable substrate

Aloe Vera overwatered: Measures

If the aloe vera has been watered too often or in too large quantities, then quick action is required. The following steps are important:

  1. Substrate change: If the plant rots, you should change the soil first. This will remove the excess moisture and germs. It is crucial that you choose sterile succulent soil as a substitute. Alternatively, a permeable, loose substrate with a proportion of sand can be used.
  2. Insert drainage: A layer of potsherds or stones ensures that the water can drain off well and that no further damage occurs from too much water.
  3. Remove Rotten Sections: Before you put the aloe in the fresh substrate, you should remove all rotten parts of the plant. The key is to use clean cutting tools and clean the blades after each cut. Otherwise, pathogens can get onto the open, moist cut surfaces. Even if you don't overwater the plant again, you have to expect recurring rot.
  4. Let the cut surfaces dry: Both the roots and cut leaves should allow the cut surfaces to dry and close. Depending on the weather, temperatures and humidity, this process can take a few days or up to two weeks. After that, the plant or the cuttings can be put back into the ground.
  5. Use water sparingly: If you have really overwatered the aloe vera, the substrate should initially remain dry. It is also advisable to reduce the watering quantity and frequency.

Tip: The substrate can be rendered sterile by heating in the oven at 100 to 150°C for about an hour or in the microwave for five to ten minutes. The ideal is to do the heating in intervals with short breaks. This can prevent burning. However, germs are safely killed and not only rot can be avoided.

temperature

One reason an aloe vera can easily become overwatered is if the temperature is too low. The plant has its origins in warm, dry regions. Likewise, it should also be cultivated. Warm and sunny areas with low humidity are therefore ideal. The south window in the living room is ideal. On the other hand, you should avoid a rather cold kitchen as well as an unheated bathroom. It is in good hands in a bright place near a frequently used heater.

frequently asked Questions

How warm should the aloe vera be?

It should be 20 to 25 °C. It is ideal to keep the temperatures as constant as possible all year round. The plant does not need to hibernate at lower temperatures. It is important that the cooler the aloe is, the less water should be given.

How often does the aloe need to be checked?

Preferably weekly. If it has been overwatered, a timely change of soil can prevent it from rotting. However, it is not enough to check the soil only superficially for moisture content. It is much more important to look at the roots and the bottom of the planter.

Can aloe tolerate hard water?

In small amounts, lime is not a problem. However, soft water is the better choice and does not stress the plant. Rainwater, stagnant tap water and pond water are suitable.

Can the plant be watered from above?

No. The mere contact with water can cause the leaves to rot. Watering should therefore always be done from below. For this reason, spraying the leaves is not recommended.

Category:

Indoor plants