Reasons and Solutions for Aloe Vera Yellow Leaves
As a perennial evergreen succulent plant, aloe vera is deeply loved by gardening enthusiasts for its unique ornamental value and purification function. However, during the maintenance process, the phenomenon of yellowing leaves often leaves growers at a loss. This article analyzes four major core maintenance misunderstandings and combines over 20 specific coping strategies to help you quickly diagnose and rescue yellowing aloe vera.
I. Imbalance in Water Management
1.1 Dangers of Overwatering
When the soil moisture content remains >70%, the succulent roots may experience cell necrosis due to hypoxia. Especially for aloe vera planted in ceramic pots, the pot wall's permeability can mislead the watering judgment, so it is recommended to use a soil moisture meter.
1.2 Emergency Treatment Process
After detecting积水, immediately implement the "Three-Step Rescue Method": ① Tilt the pot to drain the excess water; ② Poke 5-8 air holes in the soil surface with bamboo chopsticks; ③ Place the plant in a ventilated area at 28°C for 3-5 days. During the recovery period, spray a 0.1% indole butyric acid solution to promote root regeneration.
II. Abnormal Nutrient Supply
2.1 Identification of Fertilizer Deficiency Symptoms
Observe the order of leaf yellowing: from the bottom leaves upwards, chlorosis between veins, and accompanied by thinning leaves (＜0.3cm), which can be identified as yellowing leaves due to fertilizer deficiency.
2.2 Scientific Fertilization Plan
Adopt the "3+2" top dressing model: apply decomposed soybean cake water (diluted 1:50) three times a month in spring and autumn, and switch to seaweed fertilizer twice a month in winter. Note that after fertilizing, it is necessary to loosen the soil to ensure the fertilizer渗透s to the 15cm deep root layer.
III. Response to Temperature Stress
3.1冻害 Warning Indicators
When the ambient temperature remains <10°C for 48 hours, the protoplasmic flow in aloe vera cells slows down; when it is <5°C, the cell walls begin to break, and glassy transparent spots appear on the leaves.
3.2 Winter Maintenance Tips
In northern regions, it is recommended to use the "pot-inside-pot insulation method": the outer pot diameter is 5cm larger, with vermiculite insulation layer filled in the gap. At night, use PE insulation film to cover the plant, but ensure 4 hours of ventilation time daily.
IV. Comprehensive Control of Diseases and Pests
4.1 Identification of Common Diseases
(T-J) disease initially presents as small brown spots (diameter 2-3mm), which expand to concentric rings after 7 days; root rot disease is accompanied by a sour smell and can be checked by digging up the surface roots.
4.2 Biological Control Solutions
It is recommended to use Bacillus subtilis (10^8 CFU/g) 500 times liquid for root irrigation, combined with hanging yellow sticky insect boards for physical pest control. In severe infections, alternate spraying with benomyl and pyraclostrobin for chemical control.
Through systematic analysis, it can be seen that yellowing leaves in aloe vera are survival warning signals sent by the plant. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording watering cycles, fertilization amounts, and environmental parameter changes, and combine regular rotation of the pot (90° per week) to ensure even light exposure. When the yellowing rate exceeds 30%, high-position cutting and propagation can be used for germplasm preservation.