Aloe with Black Sticky Ooze: Overwatering Rot, Cold Sensitivity

Indoor Aloe (Non-vera): Black Ooze at Base, Dry Lower Leaves

Happy 6-month-old aloe suddenly has black sticky substance at base, lower leaves drying. Owner watered ~every 2 weeks; recent cold by single-pane window. Panic-watered after seeing ooze, moved near radiator.

Diagnosis: Rot from Overwatering + Cold

Greg says black ooze = rot, usually from overwatering, especially in winter. Aloes are cold-sensitive (below 40°F bad). Let soil dry completely. Remove bottom leaves; squeeze stem—if soft, plant is dead. If firm, may recover.

Immediate Steps

• Stop watering until soil is dry deep down.
• Move away from cold window AND radiator (steady 60–70°F best).
• Remove mushy leaves.
• Monitor stem firmness.