Should I cut the brown tips off my aloe plant?

Brown, dry leaf tips on an aloe plant are normal and not necessarily a cause for concern. You can use clean scissors to trim off any dry, cracked tips to improve the plant's appearance.

Why is my aloe vera plant turning brown and soft?

Soft, mushy, and browning leaves on an aloe vera plant are telltale signs of overwatering or root rot. Reduce watering frequency and allow the soil to fully dry out between waterings. Remove any mushy, rotten leaves.

What does aloe rot look like?

Aloe rot typically appears as soft, mushy, discolored leaves that turn brown or black. The leaves may also smell foul when the plant is severely overwatered and rotting from the roots.

How to tell when aloe needs water?

One of the clearest signs your aloe vera needs water is when its plump leaves start to wrinkle, shrivel and become thinner. Smooth, plump leaves indicate the plant is adequately hydrated.

Is Epsom salt good for aloe vera plants?

Epsom salt can be beneficial for aloe vera plants when used sparingly. The magnesium and sulfur help promote lush, green growth and can aid with seed germination. However, too much can build up salt levels and damage the plant.

Council Tree Care Guide

Plant Care

May 12

Written By goodroots collective

Ficus Altissima, commonly known as the Council Tree or the Lofty Fig, is a stunning houseplant prized for its glossy leaves and air-purifying qualities. Native to tropical regions of Asia, this plant belongs to the Ficus genus and is a member of the Moraceae family. In its natural habitat, it can grow to impressive heights, often reaching up to 30 meters tall. With proper care, Ficus Altissima can thrive indoors, adding a touch of lush greenery to any space.

Council Trees are characterized by their large, leathery leaves that are elliptical or lanceolate in shape. The leaves are typically dark green with prominent veins, giving the plants a bold and striking appearance. As they mature, Council Trees may develop woody trunks, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

Close up image of a council tree (ficus altissima).

Light Requirements

Council Trees do best in bright, indirect light. Place yours near a window where it can receive plenty of natural sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight though, as this can burn the leaves.

Watering Needs

When it comes to watering, it's important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. The top inch of soil should dry out between waterings. Be sure to drain any excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.

Soil and Potting

The type of soil you use is vital for your Council Tree's well-being. You want soil that drains well but keeps enough moisture for the roots. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and pine bark works great.

Peat moss holds onto water, keeping the soil consistently moist. Perlite helps air circulate in the soil, so the roots don't drown. Pine bark adds stability and helps roots grow.

Keep the soil slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0 pH. Check the soil's moisture by sticking your finger in. If it's dry, water your plant.

Every few years, repot your Council Tree to refresh the soil and give the roots more room. While repotting, check for crowded or sick roots and trim them. Good soil means a happy, healthy plant.

Temperature and Humidity

Council Trees prefer warm and humid conditions, similar to their native habitat. Aim to keep the room temperature between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), and consider placing a humidifier nearby to maintain adequate humidity levels.

Pruning and Maintenance

Regular pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of your Council Tree. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as any leggy growth, to encourage bushier growth. Additionally, periodically wipe the leaves with damp cloths to remove dust and keep them looking glossy and vibrant.

Propagation

You can propagate your Council Tree with stem cuttings or air layering.

Stem Cuttings

One of the easiest ways to propagate Council Trees is through stem cuttings. Take 6-8 inch cuttings from healthy stems, remove the lower leaves, and place the cuttings in containers filled with moist potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist, and roots should develop within a few weeks.

Air Layering

Air layering is another effective method for propagating Council Trees. Make small incisions in healthy stems, wrap them with moist sphagnum moss, and cover them with plastic wrap. Roots will form at the incision points, and once they are well-established, the new plants can be severed from the parents.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While Council Trees are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, they may occasionally encounter issues such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Inspect the plants regularly for signs of infestation, and treat any problems promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Council Trees are beautiful and low-maintenance houseplants that can thrive indoors with the right care and attention. By providing adequate light, water, and humidity, as well as regular maintenance such as pruning and fertilizing, you can enjoy the beauty of these vibrant plants in your space.

care instructions

goodroots collective