What to Do When Aloe Vera Leaves Wrinkle
As the easiest-to-care-for succulent plant for balcony gardeners, it is always anxiety-inducing when aloe vera leaves suddenly become wrinkled and dry. This article systematically reviews 5 major core maintenance mistakes, and through specific measures such as soil improvement, water control, and light adjustment, helps your aloe vera quickly return to a plump state.
One: Optimization of Root Care System
1.1 Soil Hardening Improvement Plan
When aloe vera roots are in heavy, compacted soil for a long time, the obstruction of oxygen exchange leads to weakened respiration. It is recommended to change the substrate every 2 years, using a ratio of perlite: decomposed leaf soil: coarse sand = 3:4:3 to ensure the drainage holes are unobstructed.
1.2 Loosening Soil Operation Specifications
During the growing season, loosen the soil along the pot wall with a bamboo skewer once a month, controlling the depth between 5-8cm to avoid damaging the main roots. After loosening the soil, a small amount of rice husk charcoal can be sprinkled to improve the soil structure.
Two: Scientific Water Management
2.1 Standards for Water Deficiency Diagnosis
When the top 3cm of the soil is dry and white, and the bottom soil is still slightly moist, the immersion pot method can be used to replenish water. Keep the soil moisture at 30% in winter and 50% in summer.
2.2 Water Revival Techniques
For severely drought-stressed plants, first move them to a shady place, the first water supply should not exceed 100ml, and then gradually increase the amount of water when the stomata restore water function.
Three: Precise Light Environment Adjustment
3.1 Sunscreen Net Usage Specifications
From 10:00 to 15:00 in the summer, a sunscreen net with a 50% shading rate should be set up, and combined with rotating the pot, to ensure uniform light exposure to the plant.
3.2 Light Supplement System Configuration
In winter, an LED plant growth light can be set up, supplementing light for 4 hours a day, maintaining a distance of 40cm from the light, and choosing a spectrum of 400-500nm blue light.
Four: Optimization of Nutrient Supply System
4.1 Potassium Fertilizer Application Plan
Apply monopotassium phosphate (0.2% concentration) every half month during the growing season, combined with banana peel fermentation liquid for root irrigation, effectively preventing leaf tip burn.
4.2 Trace Element Supplement
Regularly spray foliar fertilizer containing magnesium and calcium, using a concentration of 800 times liquid, which can significantly improve the leaf's water storage capacity.
Five: Environmental Adaptability Training
By gradually increasing the ventilation duration and adjusting the day-night temperature difference (25°C during the day / 15°C at night), the plant's resistance can be effectively improved. Regularly wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to keep the stomata unobstructed.
By comprehensively applying the above maintenance strategies, 90% of the withered aloe vera can recover vitality within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to establish a maintenance log, recording key parameters such as soil moisture and light duration, gradually forming an individualized care system. Preventive maintenance is more important than remedial measures; regularly observe the plumpness of the leaves and intervene early.