Aloe Vera root rot

Unpot an aloe that softens at the base, wilts in wet mix, or smells sour. Remove roots that collapse or slough off; root color alone is not enough to decide what is dead.

Firm crown, damaged roots

Trim rotten roots, discard the old mix, and let cuts dry at the surface. Replant at the same depth in a clean draining pot with succulent mix. Keep it warm and bright; return to thorough watering only after the mix has dried, allowing it to drain each time.

Crown or base has collapsed

Separate healthy offsets with their own sound base and, ideally, roots. Discard the rotten main plant if no firm base remains. Aloe is not rescued reliably by rooting a detached leaf. The aloe article explains the distinct injury patterns.