10-Year Heirloom Aloe: Crown Rot Test Determines Fate

Critical Test: Crown Leaf Tug

Gently pull newest central leaves:

• Pull out easily: Crown rot = plant lost (slim chance).
• Firmly attached: Possible recovery if trunk firm.

Trunk Firmness

Squeeze main stem at soil line. Soft = fatal. Firm = proceed with rescue.

Rescue If Viable

• Stop watering completely.
• Bright indirect light.
• Remove only fully dead lower leaves.
• Wait for soil to dry thoroughly (weeks).
• Water sparingly only when bone-dry.

Variety ID Helps

Some aloes (e.g., A. arborescens) are tougher than A. vera. Photo ID enables specific advice.