Question
I was wondering what is the best temperature to raise an aloe plant. I was given two plants by someone that was not caring for them properly as the leaves were almost red and smelled horrible. I have pruned the leaves that smelled and were rotten and the soil was very dry so I watered it. I know now I should not water again until it is dry. What I do not know is what temperature is best and what range they can live in without damage. Also, they are both leaning over because they are top heavy. Only a few very tall leaves. I was wondering when would be best to replant and how to go about it. Thanks for the help.

Answer
Trish,

The red color was because the aloe was getting lots of sun and that is perfectly normal. The rotting and smell was because it was being overwatered. They must dry out totally between waterings. Aloes come from the plains of South Africa. Temperatures they are happy in are the same ones you are happy in, 65 degrees to 85 degrees. They love the sun. As they grow large they do fall over in their natural environment. The only way to keep them upright is to grow them low in a deep pot so the rim of the pot supports them. Otherwise they will fall over but it will not hurt them to grow laying on their sides. It is a matter of personal taste. It would be best to repot them in the spring between April 1st and June 15th. That is the best time to repot any houseplants. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene