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Aloe Vera Plant Turning Red / The 5 Most Common (Un)Healthy Reasons For This Amazing Phenomenon

Wondering why is your aloe vera plant turning red? Keep reading and find out the main causes of this phenomenon and how to solve them.

Aloe Vera is one of the most popular plants in the world. It is no wonder that people adore it because it has a distinctive appearance, ease of care, and perhaps most of all due to its unique healing properties. Are the leaves of your favorite aloe vera plant randomly turning a shade? No need to panic, stay here and find out everything you need to know about the aloe vera plant turning red.

Why Is Your Aloe Vera Plant Turning Red?

The most common reasons why is your aloe vera plant turning red are mostly related to the sun. In addition, they can change their color from the stress of cold temperatures, overwatering, sunburn, and fertilizer shock. Also, keep in mind that this can happen as a result of recent repotting.

Think about your attitude towards this lovely plant, do you give it everything it needs to be able to thrive? If you feel you are making mistakes in some basic steps, getting back on track usually resolves the issue quickly.

A Brief Overview Of The Main Causes Of Aloe Vera Plant Turning Red

Did you know that there are hundreds of species of this plant? This Wonder Plant which comes in many shapes and sizes has amazing medicinal and cosmetic properties and is best known for thriving in sunny, dry conditions.

Aloe vera plant turning red doesn’t always have to be a cause for alarm; in fact, it can give you key information about its status. Find out the healthy and unhealthy causes for this phenomenon below.

Is red aloe vera safe?

Healthy Causes Of Aloe Vera Plant Turning Red

Color Change Caused By The Sun

It’s no secret that these plants adore the sun and will thrive best with a few hours of direct sunlight a day. Truth be told, this rule cannot be applied to all types of plants equally as some of them do well in shady places, while others will enjoy direct sunlight.

Keep in mind that the highest percentage of them will actually appreciate protection from the intense midday sun. If exposed to too much sunlight for a long time, this plant will react by turning the color from red to dark bronze as a shield from excess rays.

Also, as we have already mentioned, the rule does not apply to all specimens equally, because an aloe vera plant turning red may be a sign of a happy plant that gets everything it needs. All in all, the most important thing is to conduct thorough research so that you can meet all the requirements and needs of your plant.

Acclimation To New Conditions

Although these plants adore the sun, they always need some time to adjust to the change increase of light. Why? That is why natural outdoor light is much brighter than indoor lighting. Besides, did you know that your windows actually filter out the ultraviolet rays? Accordingly, the plant should be gradually exposed to the sun.

Unhealthy Causes Of Aloe Vera Plant Turning Red

Watering & All The Difficulties That Come With It

As drought is a problem for some plants, so do watering can be a real danger to your aloe vera. Namely, these plants can easily recover from too much sun exposure, but not from too much watering.

If you want to be successful, listen to our top watering tips:

  • Be prudent and stick to a watering plan.
  • Water your plants at intervals of two to four weeks during the growing season.
  • Listen to your plants, the ideal time for watering is when the leaves start to wrinkle slightly.
  • Avoid watering if aloe leaves are tight and plump.
  • Don’t skip watering as this can also be one of the main causes of the aloe vera plants turning red.

Unsuitable, HeavySoil

All experts agree that your plant needs light, pH neutral, or slightly alkaline soil that drains very well. Why? Because its roots absorb almost every drop of water, and if you place it in unsuitable soil, it makes it difficult to keep the roots safely dry.

What does an overwatered aloe look like?

Too Much Fertilizer

It is not out of place to occasionally feed your aloe vera plant, however, be careful as this beauty can overdose on a heavy application of fertilizer. An Aloe plant turning red can occur as a result of shock, causing various discolorations and crisping of the tips. This can be prevented if the soil is thoroughly soaked and then drained about 12 hours before each fertilizer feeding. Also, consider purchasing organic instead of synthetic fertilizers.

To Conclude

If you find the causes of aloe vera plant turning red, it is very likely that you will solve this problem and that your plant will return to normal and have its characteristic, glowing green hue again.

Have you ever encountered a problem like this and how did you solve it? Write us your answers in the section below. We are looking forward to your reply!

Read more Are Kalanchoe Poisonous To Cats

FAQ’s

Is Red Aloe Vera Safe?

Yes! Moreover, there are some red species of aloe vera, such as the wonderful Aloe cameronii. This remarkable species of aloe has natural red leaves, but this can vary depending on the season as well as the lighting itself.

Why Is My Aloe Red Inside?

If you notice that your aloe plant is red on the inside, this may be one clear indication that it has been exposed to too much sunlight or that it has been grown in poor soil.

Why Is My Aloe Vera Changing Color?

There are several reasons why your aloe vera plant changes color, but two reasons are the most common. This is mainly due to excessive watering or sun exposure.

What Does An Overwatered Aloe Look Like?

It’s not hard to recognize an aloe that has experienced too much watering, namely if you notice yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and rotting roots, it’s time to take action.

Using Rocks For Drainage In Pots / the 2 Most Common Cases In Which This Practice Is Highly Desirable

Find out what experts say about putting rocks for drainage in pots.

It’s no secret that all plants will look much better if your pots are clean and have good drainage. Drainage is crucial for the health of every plant planted. Unfortunately, a gardener can face all sorts of problems and difficulties if the soil of the plant doesn’t drain properly, including diseases such as root rot.

There are proven ways to increase drainage in pots, and many of them are the subject of study in horticultural schools, and they are also used by numerous plant production nurseries. Therefore, in this article, we will explain the science behind putting rocks for drainage in pots.

Should You Use Rocks For Drainage In Pots?

For a long time, gardeners were adding a layer of rocks for drainage in pots. They did not do it voluntarily, but it was ordered by the profession at the time. However, as time goes on and the profession progresses, according to research conducted by the University of Illinois, placing rocks for drainage in pots is considered a false belief due to the presence of a saturated zone.

How deep should rocks be for drainage?

Disadvantages Of Using Rocks For Drainage

  • Greatly limits the amount of soil that is put into the pot.
  • Saturates the soil.
  • Reduces aeration.
  • It reduces water retention which in turn doesn’t meet the needs of the plant.

What Is A Saturation Zone?

We won’t procrastinate and bother you with a kind of boring explanation, so we’ll get to the point right away.

When you water your plants, the water moves down through the soil due to the force of gravity. The roots get the necessary moisture and the rest of the water drains out of the pot. If you use rocks for drainage in pots, water percolates through the soil but gets sideward through those rocks.

As a result, the saturated zone is raised closer to the roots which unfortunately cannot exchange gases with the outside due to prolonged staying in this wet zone. This can eventually lead to wilting of your plants.

When Would You Need Rocks For Drainage In Pots?

But don’t be fooled because there are still situations where the use of rocks is very acceptable. Wondering when? Keep reading and find out.

Is it OK to put rocks around potted plants?

Too Big Drainage Holes

Placing holes larger than necessary at the bottom of the planter happens much more often than you would ever think. The consequences of this can be quite undesirable, i.e. the soil could run out of the pot with the water during each watering.

In addition, as a result, water runoff can sometimes turn yellow or brown, depending on the composition of the soil, and damage the places where the container is placed. You can even use a plant saucer, however, it will only prevent the floor from getting dirty, and will not solve your problem.

Placing rocks for drainage in pots will reduce the size of the drainage hole and prevent soil from leaching. Simply place the rocks flat on the bottom of the pot just to cover the holes.

Heavier Pot

Placing rocks on the base of a plant pot before filling the soil in this case is a pretty wise idea. Wondering why? Because it will provide a much-needed anchor that will help the plant stay upright during strong winds. In addition, it will work well for those tall pots with a small diameter or base.

What Are The Best Types Of Rocks To Use?

What can I use for drainage in pots?

Truth be told you can use different types of rocks for drainage in pots. Read below which are our favorites.

Lava rocks are a great option because they are porous, absorb and slowly release excess water.

Limestone as it gives your plants many benefits because it contains many minerals besides calcium carbonate.

Slate-like rock is a sedimentary rock made of clay and volcanic ash which is one of the best options if you are considering putting rocks for drainage in pots.

Cinder Blocks are almost identical to pumice stones and are made from fragments of solidified lava; gardeners simply love to use them at the bottom of their planting pots.

Final Verdict

We think that everyone will agree that finding the best drainage material for potted plants is a kind of combination of availability, cost, effectiveness, and perhaps most of all, ease of use. Many materials designed for this purpose can provide better drainage in pots, and when used properly can bring many benefits to your favorite planted plants.

Until recently, gardeners used only rocks for drainage in pots, but today this is not the case. With the progress of the profession come new insights that change the knowledge and practices in gardening as well as in all other spheres of human activity.

Do you use rocks for drainage in pots or have you found some new methods? Let us know below.

What stones are best for drainage in pots?

Read more Are Money Trees Toxic To Cats? Everything You Need To Know About This Unique Plant That Brings Fortune

FAQ’s

What Stones Are Best For Drainage In Pots?

Lava rocks, limestone, slate-like rock, and cinder blocks are the best types of rocks to choose from if you plan to place them at the bottom of your planting containers.

Is It OK To Put Rocks Around Potted Plants?

Until a few years ago, you weren’t even allowed to plant a plant without placing rocks on the bottom of the planting pot. Today, things are a little different, and their only purpose is no longer exclusively drainage. Rocks are mostly used to add a touch of aesthetics to the plant, prevent water loss, fungus gnats, weeds, splashing, and many other things.

Accordingly, it’s perfectly fine to use them, but you don’t have to if you feel you don’t need them.

How Deep Should Rocks Be For Drainage?

It is enough to place only one layer of flat rocks on the bottom of the planting container.

What Can I Use For Drainage In Pots?

Here are the best options if you want to add drainage to your pot:

- Activated Charcoal

- Potting Mix

- Perlite

- Gravel

- Sand

- Rocks

White Fungus On Succulents | Top 5 Proven & Effective Methods To Get Rid Of Contageous Disease

Learn all about white fungus on succulents and how to recognize and treat this disease.

Undoubtedly, we claim that succulents are one of the easiest plants to take care of. They come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes, and given the ease of maintenance, they are an ideal plant for all those busy office employees that are always on the move.

However, just like any other plant, they too can have problems as well, and there is nothing more annoying and frustrating than white fungus on succulents. f you have also noticed that your favorite plants are decaying in the blink of an eye, keep reading and find out everything you need to know, including how to recognize and treat this hated issue.

What Is White Fungus?

White mold is a fungal disease that affects various plants and vegetation and thus the succulents themselves. This disease usually covers the leaves and stems of your favorite plants and in some cases, even the entire plant and even fruits and buds with white fungal spores.

If you notice white fungus on succulents, be aware that it is an extremely contagious disease and that there is a high chance that it will spread quickly to other plants if left untreated. Truth be told, it is not a particularly dangerous disease, but it is a problem because it spreads quickly. Wondering why? Because it complicates the process of photosynthesis causing your succulents to gradually weaken and wither over time, affecting their appearance.

Click here to read what scientists have to say about this contagious disease.

Can you save a moldy succulent?

What Causes White Fungus On Succulents?

There are several causes that have a direct impact on the occurrence of white fungus on succulents, among which the primary ones are high humidity and low airflow.

Accordingly, be very careful when planning, because if the vegetation doesn’t have enough space or is too watered, it can create prime conditions for the smooth development of these fungi. Damp, low light conditions greatly contribute to the development of this disease, making your indoor succulents the most susceptible plants to fungal growth.

Effects on Your Plants

At first glance, this disease is quite harmless; moreover, your succulents may be able to live with a white, moldy-looking disease. However, it won’t take long before things go downhill. Namely, as the infection spreads, so will your plants have deflated, damaged or deformed leaves, that can eventually turn pale green and then yellow.

In cases of severe and serious infection, your favorite succulent may lose leaves, fail to flower, or even die. Worst of all, the disease is very quickly and easily transmitted to other plants and requires an immediate response.

Methods To Getting Rid Of White Fungus On Succulents

The best thing you can do is investigate which succulents are particularly resistant to various diseases. If you didn’t do it on time, here are a few home remedies that can help you get rid of white fungus on succulents.

How do you get rid of white fungus on succulents?

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a completely natural thing that has been proven to act as a good insecticide. It has proven to be a pretty good remedy for defeating white mold and other unwanted pests. Use is simple; just mix two teaspoons of organic neem oil with a half-gallon of water into a sprayer. Your infected plant should be sprayed every few days until the white fungus is completely removed.

Vinegar

Good old vinegar has many uses, but did you know that it can be used as a proven method to remove all those annoying white fungus on succulents?

As for use, don’t hesitate because it is not complicated; all you need to do is mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a quart of water, and spray your infected plant. The procedure should be repeated every few days until you remove the last fungus.

Mouthwash

Ethanol-based mouthwash can be one of the most effective treatments for removing white fungus on succulents. Simply mix one part mouthwash with three parts water and spray your plant regularly, but avoid oversaturation as this can negatively affect the young shoots and leaves of your favorite plant.

Water, Baking Soda & Dish Soap

Try mixing water, baking soda, and dish soap together to treat the white fungus on succulents with a cloth. You don’t have to be afraid to damage your plant because succulent leaves are sturdier than normal plants. If you do not want to use a cloth, then you can make the mixture in a spray bottle and apply it to the plant.

Prevention

Prevention is also the best method to get rid of white fungus on succulents, so try to separate infected plants from healthy ones if possible, increase air circulation and pay attention to the amount and frequency of watering.

In Conclusion

As rust is cancer to boats, the white fungus can be a type of cancer for your plants. However, you don’t need to panic because you now know these 5 proven and effective methods to get rid of white fungus on succulents.

Have you ever tried them and what are your impressions? Let us know in the comments.

Read more Are Succulents Bad Luck? | Is This Unusual Belief A Myth Or A Fact?

What do fungus on succulents look like?

FAQ’s

What Do Fungus On Succulents Look Like?

Fungi are sometimes difficult to recognize because these diseases can look as if your favorite plants have been dusted with a classic white or grayish, powdery coating.

What Causes White Mold On Succulents?

High humidity and low airflow are the main causes of white mold on your succulents.

How Do You Get Rid Of White Fungus On Succulents?

Here are the main methods to get rid of white fungus on succulents:

- Neem Oil,

- Vinegar,

- Mouthwash,

- A mixture of Water, Baking Soda & Dish Soap.

Can You Save A Moldy Succulent?

Yes, you can certainly save your moldy succulent. You can use some of the natural methods such as a mixture of vinegar and water, or a mixture of mouthwash and water, but you can also use some other means that can be purchased in specialty stores after consulting a specialist.

The Best Grow Light For Aloe Vera: 2 Quality Types That The Owners Recommend

Learn everything you need to know about the best grow light for aloe vera.

Aloes are sun-loving plants and sometimes, growing them indoors might not provide them with enough sunlight, especially during the colder and gloomier autumn and winter days when the nights are considerably longer than the day.

There are many types of grow light for aloe vera, and choosing the ideal one requires planning and research. Keep reading because here is what you need to know before buying one.

How Much Sun Does My Aloe Vera Need?

Aloe vera is one of those plants that love the sun but doesn’t like it when it is directly aimed at its beautiful leaves. Three to five hours of light a day is quite enough for their good overall health and dark, robust leaves. If you give it an hour more than that, it can’t be out of place, moreover, it can have faster and more compact growth.

In the absence of light, your aloe plant gets droopy, leggy, dried, and loses pigmentation. However, worst of all is that it can lose its characteristic leaves and slow down growth. Accordingly, if you want your aloe vera to grow healthy and be vibrant, provide it with enough light. What to do when there is not enough sun is there perhaps grow light for aloe? Find out below.

Can aloe plants get too much sun?

Finding The Best Grow Light For Aloe Vera

Although it is most desirable that your aloe has about three or four hours of sunlight each day, your indoor plants can survive with the artificial one. Thanks to advanced technology, nowadays there is more than just one type of grow light aloe vera available, which actually makes things a lot easier.

Growers generally decide to buy Fluorescent and LED lights. So, we will tell you more about them below.

Fluorescent Type of Grow Light for Aloe Vera

No wonder the fluorescent type is one of the most purchased types of grow light for aloe vera, as it has been around for decades, and in addition, comes in different shapes and sizes. We must emphasize that they provide “full-spectrum” lights, ranging from red to ultraviolet light. The three most popular types of these lights are T5, T8, and T12. The T5 fluorescent grow light for aloe vera is the best one you can choose, as it has excellent performance.

Furthermore, if you don’t have enough space, feel free to switch to the Compact Fluorescent Light type as well, as it comes in multiple small bulbs fitting in one round flat bottom base. They are ideal for lighting these plants when they are on your desk at home or in the office. However, be careful as CFLs have a fairly high output and tend to emit a lot of heat, so it is advisable to move them away from the plants a bit to avoid damage.

Do plants have all aloe vera pups?

Light Emitting Diode Type of Grow Light for Aloe Vera (LED)

The LED grow light for aloe vera is one of the best options as it provides your favorite plant with specific wavelengths of light. How does it actually affect your plant? It is very simple, aloe vera, like most succulents and other houseplants, cares only for the blue and red light.

This type of light gear toward providing your plants with a very narrow spectrum of light saves energy and does not threaten damage due to heat. Now you will probably be wondering which of these two types the best grow light for aloe vera is. According to the data collected, LEDs are generally better and more cost-effective than fluorescent lights, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t decide to buy them if you prefer fluorescent lights.

How Long Should I Leave The Grow Lights On?

This plant, like most other succulents, has its growing and dormant periods. It is mostly winter, and during this period these plants have lower light requirements. When it comes to growing indoors, aloe vera will generally take as much light as it can get.

Furthermore, aloe vera needs darkness to maintain a healthy growth cycle but also requires at least six hours of sunlight a day to thrive and it is therefore recommended to leave the lights on for 12-14 hours to mimic the proper cycle of day and night.

To Wrap Things Up

Providing your house plants with a suitable and sufficient amount of sunlight is of utmost importance because only in this way will you be able to increase their flowering rate. Aloe vera is one of the most beautiful houseplants; it is also easy to grow, incredibly adaptable, and quite low-maintenance. It thrives best at temperatures between 21 and 29 degrees Celsius during the day and 15 degrees at night.

In case of lack of natural sunlight, which is actually a regular occurrence for cold winter days, feel free to turn to use grow light for aloe vera.

We hope you found this article useful, and if you have any questions, feel free to let us know.

Related article Why Aloe Vera Smells Bad?

FAQ’s

Why Is My Aloe Plant So Light?

Healthy aloe vera plants should look blue-green or gray-green, but if you notice that its characteristic color fades, you probably have a problem with excessive watering or lack of nutrients.

Can Aloe Plants Get Too Much Sun?

Yes, your aloe plant can receive too much sun which can eventually damage its leaves.

How Can I Make My Aloe Vera Grow Bigger?

These are some of the conditions you must meet if you want your aloe vera to grow into a healthy, adult plant:

- Opt for a large enough clay pot with drainage holes to give your plant enough space to spread the roots.

-  Pick the soil containing some coarse sand or perlite.

- Provide it with a sufficient amount of natural or artificial light.

Do Plants Have All Aloe Vera Pups?

Although some do grow offsets, a good portion of these plants do not produce pups at all. The most famous non-pup types are Coral, Tiger tooth, and Fez aloe.

Best Plant Food For Succulents: 4 Commendable Options Worth Trying

Learn how to choose the best plant food for succulents, and let your plant thrive.

Thick, supple, and firm leaves are the main characteristics of every healthy succulent. Of course, regular watering and avoiding direct contact with bright sunlight will help your houseplants to grow. Truth be told, they still won’t thrive, and that should be your primary goal.

Wondering why? This is because succulents like all other plants in the world need feeding, but in smaller quantities and with an appropriate time interval. Although these are low-maintenance houseplants, using the best plant food for succulents is guaranteed to take your beauties to a new, enviable level.

With so many types of fertilizer available, it can be quite difficult to narrow down your options and choose the right one. Stay with us and learn how to provide your plant with everything it needs to thrive.

Our Top Picks: Best Plant Food For Succulents

Now that you know what its value is, it’s time to tell you a few sentences about our favorites. So let’s get to the point.

EarthPods Premium Cactus & Succulent Plant Food

If you’re looking for the best plant food for succulents that is organic and at the same time easy to use, you need to look no further than EarthPods. This fertilizer is formulated to be suitable for all types of succulents as well as different types of cacti, aloe, jades, and other arid plants.

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As for its composition, it contains numerous natural nutrients, minerals, natural growth hormones, and humic + fulvic acids. However, we mustn’t forget to mention that this EarthPods product also contains a diverse population of beneficial soil microbes, which are found in a form immediately available to plants.

Satisfied customers claim that the shift in their plants was visible almost immediately, and some of the most noticeable changes include vibrant colors, better overall stem development, and robust root growth.

As for the application, it is very easy to use. All you have to do is put the pods into the soil, in case you are using bark or pebbles, open the pod and apply its content evenly near the succulent plant. It is recommended to use 1 to 2 pods for small, 2 to 4 for slightly larger, and 4 to 8 for large succulents.

The product is pet and child safe, as well as eco-friendly.

Miracle-Gro Succulent Plant Food

This affordable synthetic liquid fertilizer from Miracle-Gro is rightly considered the best plant food for succulents. It is a great choice for every type of succulents, cacti, jade, and aloe, primarily because of the special formulation that nourishes your houseplants and shows results almost instantly after the first application.

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It is quite a practical product as it can be used in two ways, mixed with water or applied directly to the ground. Furthermore, the fertilizer comes in interesting packaging, i.e. in a bottle with a pump that allows you to more easily measure the amount of fertilizer to use. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, use 2 pumps for small pots containing your succulents and 5 for pots larger than six inches wide.

Dr. Earth Organic Premium Gold All Purpose Fertilizer

Dr. Earth’s Premium Gold formula is a certified, organic fertilizer designed for almost all plants, from succulents to flowers, vegetables, and shrubs. It is enough to mix a small amount of this best plant food for succulents into the soil before planting. This way, your plants will be able to grow and thrive in a nutrient-rich environment.

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This granular fertilizer is formulated to release nutrients immediately but to act gradually over the next few weeks. According to the manufacturer’s instructions sprinkle 2 tablespoons of Dr. Earth’s Premium Gold formula for every 6 inches of pot diameter; this pack should be enough to feed 20 1-gallon plants for up to 2 months.

Jobe’s 06703 Succulent Fertilizer Spikes

The slow-release formula of this Jobe’s best plant food for succulents is suitable for all gardeners who do not want much commitment and prefer fertilizing once per season only. This product comes in a spike form and is made from certified organic ingredients which makes it pet and child friendly.

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Keep in mind that the NPK ratio is 2-8-8, which actually means that this fertilizer is not the best option for those succulents that require extremely large amounts of nitrogen. Accordingly, inquire about the nutritional needs of your houseplants before you get fertilizer.

Regarding the application of this formula, the manufacturer recommends the use of one spike for plants in pots up to 4-inch diameters and two spikes for pots up to 8 inches in diameter or more.

Abstract

Truth be told, it is no wonder that many believe that succulents do not need fertilization at all. After all, the first thing most people think of is that they are low-maintenance and able to thrive in the desert where not-so-friendly weather conditions prevail. That is why it is important to know (and understand) that fertilizer is a link that is often missing in order for these plants to grow successfully and more vibrant.

What do you think is the best plant food for succulents? Write to us in the section below.

Can I use Miracle Gro on succulents?

Read more: Are West-Facing Windows Good For Plants?

FAQ’s

How Often Should I Give My Succulents Plant Food?

There is no special rule that applies equally to all succulents. Different plants have different needs in everything, including fertilization. However, you will not go wrong if you decide to give your succulents plant food as often as once a month.

Can I Use Miracle-Gro On Succulents?

You can give Miracle-Gro to your succulents without hesitation. Moreover, you can even use it on cacti, jade, aloe, etc.

What's The Best Potting Mix For Succulents?

Your succulents will adore well-drained potting soil full of organic and mineral matter and preferably mixed with sand and perlite/pumice.

Do Potted Succulents Need Plant Food?

Like all other houseplants, potted succulents should be fertilized regularly to grow healthily and successfully.