Question
I have just recvd a very large and distressed aloe plant that has gone unwatered for 3-4months. There are still many green leaves but their roots have dried up and turned brown.  The roots till feel somewhat rubbery to the touch. I have transplanted to a bigger pot. Is there anything else I can do to save this plant?  Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hi Jeffrey,

This will surprise you, but my main suggestion is to move it back into its original pot. Your Aloe is distressed because it wasn't watered for 3-4 months. A larger pot is not going to help. In fact, pot size should reflect the volume of healthy roots and at this point your rescue project does not have extensive healthy roots.

Your Aloe needs a steady supply of water more than anything else. In fact, other things such as repotting and fertilizing will simply add to its stress. Once it is back in its original pot, water it thoroughly until the entire rootball is saturated. Then let it dry about one-third of the way down into the pot before watering thoroughly once again.

Provide lots of direct sunlight. And then be patient because recovery will be slow and it cannot be forced.

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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