The main reasons an aloe vera plant turns brown include:
- Overwatering: Aloe is a succulent adapted to dry conditions. Excess moisture suffocates roots, leading to brown, soft, or mushy leaves and root rot. Let the soil dry out fully before watering again and ensure good drainage.
- Underwatering: If the plant is dehydrated, tips and leaves can dry out and turn brown. Water deeply but less frequently, waiting until soil dries out completely.
- Excessive sunlight: Too much direct sun can cause brown or bleached spots from sunburn. Aloe prefers bright but indirect light or partial shade.
- Sun stress (less severe): Causes reddish-brown hues as the plant produces protective pigments. This can fade if light intensity is reduced.
- Too much fertilizer: Overuse of fertilizer causes toxicity, brown spots, and burnt leaf edges.
- Poor soil drainage or lack of drainage hole: Roots suffocate without good airflow and drainage, causing browning damage.
- Cold damage: Exposure to cold below 50°F can brown leaves.
Brown leaves from sunburn or overwatering do not usually turn green again, but correcting conditions helps new healthy growth emerge. Removing damaged leaves can improve appearance and plant health. To fix browning aloe:
- Adjust watering: water only when soil is dry and avoid excess watering
- Provide bright indirect light or filtered sun
- Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes
- Avoid over-fertilizing
- Protect from cold temperatures
These tips help restore an aloe vera plant's green vibrancy and health.
