Aloe Vera Dying from Base Up: 95% Brown, Likely Unsalvageable

Indoor Aloe Vera in Illinois: Rapid Browning from Soil Up

An aloe vera stem from a store was green but not growing since August. Now, in cold weather indoors, 95% of the stem is brown. Owner seeks saving suggestions.

Verdict: Too Far Gone

Greg states that if rot travels from the soil upward and 95% is dead, there's no saving it. Aloes are notoriously difficult to root from cuttings; success requires a long healthy stem. This one has none.

Next Time

• Use gritty, fast-draining soil (cactus mix + extra perlite/pumice).
• Water only when soil is bone-dry.
• Keep above 50°F; aloes hate cold + wet.
• Consider a hardier succulent for indoor low-light conditions.

Start fresh with a new plant and better conditions.