Yellowing Aloe Vera: Nutrient, Light, or Pot Bound?

Diagnosing the Yellowing

A 5-year-old, 30-inch aloe vera in Central Florida yellows suddenly, including offsets. Possible causes:

Top Suspects

• Nutrient deficiency: Nitrogen or iron lack in old potting soil. Test with dilute balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 at ¼ strength) or "Superthrive."
• Sunburn: Sudden exposure to intense direct sun after shade growth causes bleaching/yellowing.
• Root bound: Roots circling pot bottom reduce uptake. Check by sliding root ball out.
• Overwatering: Wet soil rots roots, causing nutrient lockout.

Action Plan

1. Inspect roots; repot if bound into fresh cactus mix + 25% compost.
2. Apply light fertilizer; monitor for greening in 2–3 weeks.
3. Ensure bright, indirect light – morning sun only in hot climates.
4. Water only when top 2 inches of soil are dry.

Offset Management

Separate pups when they have own roots. Pot individually to reduce competition.

Florida's humidity demands extra drainage – add extra perlite.