---
title: "I recently got this aloe maybe 2-3 weeks ago. I figured it would…"
description: "I recently got this aloe maybe 2-3 weeks ago. I figured it would thrive in the sun. I used normal soil maybe I should’ve made it more gritty. Any thoughts on…"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/lKxUkhzRR_aIJD7o1QvtwQ/Xz7db4B4lfdUqSXPnygVMk"
community: "Pests, diseases and problems"
author: "iluuvkandi"
published: "2025-10-02T13:10:43.823487Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/Le73ycTC-gDgqSAlM29OEMuA8zGOSv1Vmb-704oRd4Q/CqdQ7IKRSY6Xy_Xv5XTRzA.webp?size=large"
---

[Community](https://getplanta.com/community.md) / [Pests, diseases and problems](https://getplanta.com/community/lKxUkhzRR_aIJD7o1QvtwQ.md)

# I recently got this aloe maybe 2-3 weeks ago. I figured it would…

_Posted by iluuvkandi on 2025-10-02_

I recently got this aloe maybe 2-3 weeks ago. I figured it would thrive in the sun. I used normal soil maybe I should’ve made it more gritty. Any thoughts on what might’ve happened. When I first put it in the sun it looked like it got burnt so I put it in indirect sunlight on my balcony. But it unfortunately got worse. Help? I doubt I can save her but would love pointers for next time.

![Attachment 1 of 1](https://images.getplanta.com/v1/resize/Le73ycTC-gDgqSAlM29OEMuA8zGOSv1Vmb-704oRd4Q/CqdQ7IKRSY6Xy_Xv5XTRzA.webp?size=large)

## 11 comments

### Vicki commented on 2025-10-02

Your pot is way too big. It also needs an airier soil. Cut off the dead/dying leaves and it should grow new arms. The pot should only be 1-2in bigger than the root ball/roots. Otherwise it will drown

#### iluuvkandi replied on 2025-10-02

thank u so much for the tip!

### Nunyabzwx commented on 2025-10-02

It looks overwatered to me. And i agree the pot is to big then the water doesn't dry out fast enough. Put some perlite in the soil.

#### iluuvkandi replied on 2025-10-02

that sounds about right thank u so much!

### Sunny commented on 2025-10-02

Definitely looks like an overwatering issue. Use a succulent soil mix which dries out faster. Don’t use standard potting mix if that’s what you’re calling normal soil. Standard mix holds more water too long for succulents.

I agree the pot should be smaller by half the current diameter or less. The roots can’t use up all the water in the excess soil in the current pot.

You have to slowly acclimate it to full sun to prevent sunburn shock. 🪴🍀

#### iluuvkandi replied on 2025-10-02

I’d thought succulents would love sun right off the bat, just goes to show how sensitive these lil guys are I love it

#### Sunny replied on 2025-10-02

Succulents like full sun. But, they have to get used to it in small doses until the plant can stand all day sun especially if they were in shade or filtered light. It’s not just succulents that need this adjustment period. Ask me how I know.😁. Check online for detailed procedures on the steps to take plants from shade to sun. 🪴🍀

### Plant Mam commented on 2025-10-02

I agree with Sunny. It was probably too much sun too fast and it went into shock. If you want it outside, try putting it in the shade and checking it everyday until you get a handle on how much water and sun it needs.

### iluuvkandi commented on 2025-10-02

thank you so much!

### Phil commented on 2025-10-02

Another little minor help would be put more soil in the pot. It raises up the plant and may help with air flow.

#### Sunny replied on 2025-10-02

That’s a good point. I would say ensure the top soil is within 1/4 inches of the rim or less when you reduce the pot size. Phil is right that you get better airflow with the potting mix closer to the rim.

---

_Source: the Planta community (https://getplanta.com). Reading is open to everyone. To post, comment and like, get the Planta app: https://getplanta.com/download_