How to Deal with Aloe Vera Leaf Drop
Aloe vera, a widely popular houseplant, commonly experiences leaf drop issues during its care. When you notice abnormal leaf shedding in aloe vera, it is often closely related to three major factors: water management, cultivation containers, and soil environment. This article will systematically analyze the causes and provide corresponding solutions to help you quickly diagnose the root of the problem and bring the aloe vera back to life.
One: Scientifically Control Watering Amounts
Water Imbalance Causes Leaf Drop
Aloe vera, as a succulent plant, has leaves with strong water storage capabilities. However, its roots are highly sensitive to waterlogging, and prolonged moisture can lead to root rot, while excessive drought can trigger the plant's self-protection mechanism and cause leaf shedding. It is recommended to use the "finger joint test" to determine the watering time: insert the index finger into the second knuckle of the soil, and water if it is dry.
Seasonal Watering Plan
Water thoroughly every 15 days in spring and autumn, reduce to every 7-10 days during the high-temperature summer season, and extend to every 25-30 days during the winter dormancy period. Special attention should be paid to tilting the pot after watering to pour out any accumulated water in the saucer to avoid forming localized waterlogging areas. Spraying the leaves with water in the morning and evening can increase air humidity but avoid doing so during the midday strong sunlight hours.
Two: Optimize Cultivation Container Selection
Impact of Pot Material
Plastic pots commonly found on the market, although lightweight and inexpensive, have a closed structure that severely hampers root respiration. It is recommended to use unglazed terracotta pots 5 cm larger in diameter than the plant, which have a unique breathable design that allows for air circulation. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the original soil to protect the roots, and place a 3 cm thick layer of volcanic stones at the bottom of the new pot for drainage.
Three: Improve Soil Matrix Proportions
Ideal Soil Structure
Aloe vera grows well in sandy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It is recommended to use the "3:2:1" golden ratio: 3 parts coarse river sand (particle size 2-4mm) for drainage, 2 parts decomposed leaf soil for nutrients, and 1 part perlite for improved aeration. Perform soil loosening every spring, using a bamboo skewer to insert along the pot wall to loosen compacted soil layers.
Soil Disinfection Treatment
New soil must be exposed to sunlight for 3 days or sterilized by high-temperature roasting before use. If white salt and alkali crystals appear on the soil surface, rinse with pure water three times to desalinate.
By adjusting the watering mode, changing to a breathable pot, and improving the soil matrix, along with regular observation of the plant's condition, leaf drop in aloe vera can be improved within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to fertilize monthly with diluted aloe vera-specific nutrient solution (NPK=2:1:3) to continuously enhance the plant's stress resistance, keeping your aloe vera lush and healthy.