To avoid withered leaves and stunted growth, it goes without saying that it is essential to be knowledgeable on how to save an Aloe plant with root rot.
Aloe plants are popularly known for the health benefits that come along with their antioxidant and antibacterial properties. While growing them is not difficult as they are drought-tolerant, they are unfortunately susceptible to fungal diseases.
One of the diseases that you should look out for is root rot. You can tell if your plant is infected if the roots stay attached to the soil even if you pull them out. Additionally, the leaves may be mushy, as well as the roots’ tips, which are dark brown in color.
How to Deal with Root Rot in an Aloe Plant
Root rot is not something that you can ignore unless you plan on letting your Aloe plant die. To have more chances of survival, treat it as soon as you detect the disease. When left for too long, it may be too late to save the plant.
How to avoid root rot in an aloe plant
As mentioned, Aloe plants are not that demanding with their need for water as they are succulents. Therefore, you are recommended not to water them every day because too much moisture can make them vulnerable to fungi, thus causing root rot.
That means that overwatering is prohibited, and make sure that the soil is not constantly damp. You can do that by checking if the container allows water to drain, as it should, or else moisture will accumulate. Also, avoid using dense soil as much as possible.
Regarding their exposure to light, keep in mind that Aloe plants prefer it in generous amounts. Place them in an area with access to the bright sun. However, artificial sources can be used as alternatives as well, especially if you grow them indoors.
Particularly during winter, lamps can be useful as you are discouraged from letting your Aloe plants stay outside. There, they are exposed to freezing weather and uncontrollable moisture. Their ideal temperature only ranges from 55 to 80 degrees F.
How to save an aloe plant infected with root rot
If only a portion of the Aloe plant was infected, it is best to remove it immediately. Check every part and cut off even those that are only starting to show signs of the disease. If the roots can still be salvaged, transfer the plant to a new container.
Make sure to choose a pot of appropriate size and use the recommended type of soil stated above. When you transfer the plant, the depth must be the same as with the previous container to avoid moisture complications.
However, if the roots are already too damaged, then you can only dispose of the plant to prevent the spread of the infection. Take extra care of the ones left behind, and make sure that you stay alert before it is too late.
How to prevent root rot from spreading
Aside from getting rid of the disease-ridden Aloe plants, your tools can be agents of spreading root rot as well. Therefore, make sure that you disinfect them with an antiseptic containing alcohol of at least 70 percent, and let them dry naturally afterward.
Why Should You Grow Your Aloe Plants and Other Crops in a Greenhouse?
A greenhouse not only provides several benefits for your aloe plant, but it can be beneficial to your other plants as well. If you haven’t considered using a greenhouse before, here are some of the reasons that could help change your mind:
Greenhouses keep the pests away
If you’ve been dealing with pest infestations, you can try placing your plants inside a greenhouse and add screens and traps inside it. Aphids, cabbage worms, mealy bugs, and other pests can easily damage your plants if left unattended. A high-quality greenhouse can keep these pests away so your plants can grow in a healthy environment.
Greenhouses protect your plants from bad weather
Bad weather can be detrimental to your plants, especially for your tender perennials. Growing your plants inside a greenhouse shields them from high winds, storms, heavy rain, and excessive heat. They’ll stay warm and toasty regardless of the weather.
Greenhouses allow you to control your plants’ growing environment
Controlling the indoor temperature and overall growing environment is one of the most notable benefits of greenhouses. With the help of cooling and heating systems, humidifiers, grow lights, and other materials, you’ll be able to adjust the growing environment to suit the needs of your plants. You’ll be able to grow warm weather even if you live in colder regions.
Conclusion: How to Save an Aloe Plant with Root Rot
Solely following the proper way on how to save an Aloe plant with root rot would not be enough to ensure its survival. Prevention is definitely better than cure when it comes to root rot. You need to provide the needs of your aloe plants (water deeply but infrequently, fertilize sparingly, place under bright, indirect sunlight, and more), react as soon as signs of the disease are starting to show up, and prevent root rot before it happens.