Aloe Plant Soil Mold & Leaning Arm: Beneficial Fungi, Check Roots

Soil Mold

Yellowish surface mold = saprophytic fungi (decomposers). Beneficial—release nutrients. Remove only if unsightly. Do not overwater.

Leaning Arm

Aloe arms bend toward light. Indoor = dramatic bending. Not a problem unless leaves lose turgor (thin, flaccid).

Root Check

1. Unpot; inspect roots.
2. Rot = brown/black, mushy, extremely smelly.
3. If rot: cut healthy offset, dip roots in 50% bleach 10 min, rinse 2×, callous 48 hrs, pot in moist peat, water when dry 1 knuckle.

Light Fix

Rotate pot weekly for even growth. Or accept the "octopus" form.

Aloe thrives on neglect. Mold is good; overwatering kills. Lean toward light is normal.