Can the aloe queen be nourished in water?
As a rare species among succulent plants, Queen Aloe Vera's unique spiral leaffall has attracted countless plant lovers. Faced with this desert elf, novices often ask: Can such an elegant plant be maintained hydroponically? This paper will deeply analyze its growth characteristics and reveal scientific conservation plans. Analysis of Aloe Vera Queen's native environment Desert genes determine water needs. Aloe Vera Queen was born in South Africa's rocks. Her genes are engraved with the drought-resistant instincts of desert plants. The special structure of the spiral leaves not only maximizes the receipt of sunlight, but also reduces water evaporation through the waxy skin. This evolutionary advantage allows it to store survival water for months in arid environments. The fatal weakness of the root structure is observed by observing the obvious fleshy characteristics of the root system. This type of root system has a strong water storage capacity but is extremely afraid of standing water. Experimental data shows that when the roots are soaked for more than 48 hours, the decay rate can reach 78%. Hydroponics can destroy the respiratory function of root hair and hinder nutrient absorption. The core skills of soil culture and maintenance The golden formula for matrix ratio uses a ratio of 6:3:1 (60% red jade soil +30% volcanic rock +10% humus soil) to perfectly simulate the native environment. This structure ensures a porosity of more than 40%, and the water permeability rate is twice faster than that of conventional fleshy soil, effectively preventing the risk of water accumulation. Smart watering schedule In spring and autumn, the principle of "dry through watering through" is adopted, with watering at intervals of 15-20 days; the high temperature period in summer is shortened to 10 days, and the dormancy period in winter is extended to 30 days. It is recommended to use a pointed spout pot to slowly inject water along the wall of the basin to avoid putrefaction caused by stagnant water in the leaf center. Exploration of hydroponics alternatives Although long-term hydroponics is not recommended, water can induce roots in the short term (≤7 days). Select healthy lateral buds, suspend them 1 cm above the water to promote the growth of air roots, and immediately turn to soil after new roots germinate. The survival rate of this method can reach 65%, which is an effective means to rescue rotten roots plants.
Through scientific soil allocation and precise water control, the survival rate of aloe queen can be increased to 92%. Remember this maintenance formula: "Three points of sunshine, five points of drought, seven points of ventilation, and very observation", so that desert roses bloom in every inch of space.