Aloe vera has a reputation for being almost indestructible. It copes with missed waterings, shrugs off heat and still looks good on a sunny windowsill or stoep. So when it starts drooping, browning or turning mushy, it can feel confusing – and a little discouraging. 

The good news? A struggling aloe is usually easy to rescue. Most problems come down to water, light or soil. Here’s how to spot what’s going wrong and gently guide your plant back to good health. 

Read more: Everything you need to know about succulent care

1. You’re watering too often

This is the most common mistake. Aloe stores moisture in its thick leaves, which means soggy soil can quickly lead to rot. If the leaves feel soft or look swollen, the roots are likely sitting in water.  

Fix it: Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. When you do water, soak the soil well, then allow excess moisture to drain away. Never leave the pot standing in water. 

2. You’re not watering enough

On the flip side, an aloe that’s been ignored for too long will show dry, shrivelled leaves, often starting at the base. 

Fix it: Give the plant a deep drink and check it more regularly, especially during warmer months. While aloe prefers dry conditions, it still needs water now and then to stay plump and healthy. 

3. Old leaves are dragging it down

Brown or dried-up leaves around the bottom of the plant aren’t always a sign of trouble. Aloe sheds its oldest growth as it matures. 

Fix it: Trim away dead leaves using clean scissors or secateurs. This keeps the plant tidy and allows it to focus energy on fresh growth. 

4. The light isn’t right

Aloe loves light but doesn’t enjoy harsh, direct sun all day. Too little light can cause weak, floppy leaves, while too much can bleach or scorch them.  

Fix it: Place your aloe in bright, indirect light. A sunny indoor spot near a window or a sheltered outdoor area with morning sun works well. If leaves look pale or reddish, move it somewhere gentler. 

Pexels

 5. The pot is over crowded

Aloe vera produces pups – small baby plants that grow around the base. Over time, these can fill the  

pot and compete for space and nutrients. 

Fix it: Remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the pups from the main plant. Each one with roots can be planted into its own container with fresh soil. This gives the original plant room to breathe and grow. 

 6. The roots are rotting

Yellowing leaves, drooping growth and a sour smell from the soil can point to root rot. This usually happens after prolonged overwatering. 

Fix it: Take the plant out of its pot and inspect the roots. Trim away any dark or mushy sections. Repot the aloe in clean, dry soil and wait a few days before watering again. 

7. You’re feeding it when it’s stressed

When a plant is struggling, fertiliser can do more harm than good. Aloe doesn’t need much feeding to begin with. 

Fix it: Skip fertiliser until the plant has recovered. If you do feed later on, use a mild, organic option and only during active growth in spring or summer. 

Watch out for pests

Aloe is generally trouble-free, but it can occasionally attract pests like mealybugs or scale. These often appear as white fluff or small bumps on the leaves. 

Fix it: Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth or use a mild, plant-safe treatment. Keeping your aloe in the right conditions will help prevent future issues. 

Aloe vera thrives on simplicity. With well-draining soil, the right amount of light and a relaxed watering routine, it will reward you with strong, fleshy leaves – and plenty of soothing gel to harvest when you need it. Sometimes, doing less really is the secret to bringing this hardy plant back to life. 

ALSO SEE: DIFFERENT TYPES OF ALOE PLANTS TO ADD TO YOUR GARDEN

Different types of Aloe plants to add to your garden