Question
My mother-in-law gave me an aloe plant.  It was part of a huge plant she had split.  My problem is it seems to be dying.  The leaves are nice and green and seem health, but the stem from the soil and going up is dead and dried out.  Is there anything I can do to save this?

Thanks for your time.

Answer
Hi Kathy,

If the main stem is indeed dead, then all you can do is to cut off the stem just below the lowest healthy leaves. Leave this cutting out in the open overnight. Then insert the stem stub in a small pot filled with a porous potting mix with added perlite. Make sure it is centered in the pot and the lower leaves are supported by the rim of the pot.

Keep the potting mix barely damp and provide lots or bright light. You won't be able to see it, but new roots will gradually develop in the soil and after a year or so fill the pot with roots. Meanwhile, you should continue to get healthy new growth.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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