What to Do When Aloe Vera Leaves Turn Yellow
As a star variety of houseplants, aloe vera is deeply loved for its unique appearance and air-purifying function. However, the issue of yellowing leaves frequently occurs during maintenance, which not only affects the ornamental value but also serves as an early warning sign of the plant's health deterioration. This article systematically analyzes the causes of yellow leaves and provides targeted solutions to help you quickly restore the lush green state of aloe vera.
Analysis of the Four Main Causes of Yellowing Aloe Leaves
1. Metabolic Regularity
When the bottom older leaves show slight yellowing, it usually belongs to a normal metabolic phenomenon. Healthy aloe vera naturally metabolizes 2-3 older leaves each year, with a progressive change in the yellowing process: from the leaf tip to the leaf edge, then to the entire leaf, without any signs of rot.
2. Imbalance in Water Management
More than 70% of yellowing leaf issues are caused by improper watering. Waterlogging can lead to root suffocation, resulting in new leaves turning yellow; lack of water causes the leaves to wrinkle and turn yellow. It is recommended to use the "fingertip test": insert the index finger into the potting soil up to the second joint, and water thoroughly when dry.
3. Abnormal Nutrient Supply
Infertile soil can cause overall yellowing of the leaves, especially表现为褪绿 between the veins. Aloe vera-specific soil should contain 30% river sand, 20% vermiculite, and 50% humus soil, with a diluted nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium compound fertilizer added every month during the growing season.
4. Stress Response to Sudden Environmental Changes
Sudden temperature changes, direct sunlight, or dry air can all trigger stress-induced yellowing of leaves. Maintain temperatures above 15°C in winter, shade 40% in summer, and maintain 50%-60% air humidity through mist喷水 on a regular basis.
Advanced Maintenance Techniques
Proper Potting Technique
Repot every spring every 2 years, choosing a new container 5cm larger than the original. After removing the plant from the pot, prune 1/3 of the aging roots, retain the protective soil, and the new soil needs to be pre-disinfected at high temperature. Place the repotted plant in a shaded area to recover for 7 days.
Disease Control Solutions
In the early stages of root rot, use a 50% carbendazim solution diluted 800 times to pour into the roots, and for leaf spot disease, promptly remove the diseased leaves and spray with mancozeb. Regularly wipe the leaves with alcohol-soaked cotton, which can both remove dust and prevent diseases and pests.
By systematically investigating the causes of yellowing leaves and taking corresponding measures, more than 90% of aloe vera plants can recover vitality within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to establish an observation log during maintenance, recording watering frequency, fertilizing cycles, and environmental parameters, gradually mastering the growth patterns of the plant. When abnormal changes are detected, promptly adjust the maintenance plan to keep this desert spirit forever lush and green.