Should I stake my drooping aloe?

Staking is not recommended for this aloe, as it should be strong enough to support itself. If it needs a stake, it is likely suffering from a deeper issue like rot or insufficient light.

How do I know if the roots are rotting?

Healthy roots are firm and light in color. If you pull the plant out and find roots that are black, slimy, or smell bad, you have root rot.

Why is my Aloe marlothii drooping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the stem is firm or soft to the touch.
Examine the soil to see if it is waterlogged.
Look at the direction the plant is leaning.

Likely causes

Root Rot
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves lose their rigidity and start to sag or collapse at the base. The stem may feel squishy or show dark, discolored patches.
What to do: Remove the plant from the pot and inspect the roots for mushy, dark, or foul smelling sections. Trim away any dead roots, let the plant air dry for two days, and repot in fresh, dry cactus soil.
Lack of Light
Possible
How to tell: The plant leans heavily toward the light source and the leaves appear weak or elongated. It is literally stretching to find more sun.
What to do: Gradually move the plant to a location with full, direct sun. Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure even growth on all sides.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mountain aloe

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the entire plant starts to lean or collapse, as this usually means the root system has failed. It is normal for a young plant to shift slightly as it grows toward a light source.

Stopping it coming back

Provide plenty of direct sunlight and ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to keep the root system strong.

Mountain Aloe: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mountain aloe and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I stake my drooping aloe?: Staking is not recommended for this aloe, as it should be strong enough to support itself. If it needs a stake, it is likely suffering from a deeper issue like rot or insufficient light.
How do I know if the roots are rotting?: Healthy roots are firm and light in color. If you pull the plant out and find roots that are black, slimy, or smell bad, you have root rot.

Guides to these causes

Root Rot

Why is my Aloe marlothii drooping?