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Why is my Aloe shriveling up and wrinkling?

If you notice your aloe is wrinkling and soft, it needs a drink!

Incredibly dry soil

While aloe plants are known to require very little water, they do require some water, so don’t forget about them completely! Both under and overwatering are incredibly common issues among Aloe plants. Watering too frequently can lead to root rot. You only need to water your aloe once 100% of the soil volume is dry. 

If you’re noticing wrinkles on your aloe, particularly towards the tips of the stalks, your plant is very dry and a good soak is in order. It may seem counter-intuitive to give an Aloe plant a large drink, but you’ll be shocked at how your Aloe will absorb the water and plump back up again.

Here’s how to bottom-water your aloe:

  1. Place your plant in your sink or tub without the saucer. Fill your basin up with about 3-4″ of lukewarm water.
  2. Allow your plant to soak up water through the drainage hole in the bottom of the pot for at least 45 min. 
  3. Feel the top of the soil after your plant has been soaking–has the water reached the top 2-3” of soil?
  4. If not all the soil feels saturated, water your Aloe slightly from the top of the soil to help speed up the saturation.
  5. When your plant’s soil is evenly damp, drain the sink/tub and allow the plant to rest while it drains thoroughly. Place the plant back on its saucer and back in its proper spot.

Hedgehog Aloe

Delightful succulent with spiked blue-green leaves
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Need more help?

We're confident your Aloe will be back to normal in no-time, but if you've followed the steps above and things just aren't improving you can contact us here.