What to Do When the Leaves of the Epipremnum aureum Wilt in Winter
In winter, it is common for the leaves of Epipremnum aureum to wilt and droop indoors, which is a survival warning signal from the plant. As a typical foliage plant, Epipremnum aureum is highly sensitive to changes in environmental factors such as temperature, light, and humidity. This article systematically analyzes the three key elements of caring for Epipremnum aureum in winter, helping plant enthusiasts accurately diagnose and implement effective treatments.
I. Temperature Control: The Lifeline for Epipremnum aureum to Survive Winter
1.1 Formation Mechanism of Frost Damage
When the ambient temperature remains below 8°C, the permeability of the cell membranes in Epipremnum aureum changes, and the chloroplast structure is damaged. Data shows that at temperatures below 5°C for more than 12 hours, the rate of cell death in the leaves can reach 60% or more, presenting typical wilted and drooping symptoms.
1.2 Stepwise Heating Method
It is recommended to gradually increase the ambient temperature by 3-5°C per day to avoid directly transferring the plant from 5°C to an environment above 20°C. The plant can first be moved to a transition zone of 15°C for 72 hours before being transferred to the ideal temperature range of 18-22°C.
II. Air Circulation: Key to Root Health
2.1 Period of Root Suffocation Hazard
In the low-temperature environment of winter, the evaporation of water from the potting soil decreases to one-third of that in summer. Experiments show that after watering in a closed space for 48 hours, the oxygen content in the roots of Epipremnum aureum can drop by 70%, leading to impaired root respiration.
2.2 Scientific Ventilation Scheme
Choose the period of 10:00-14:00 when the temperature is higher, open the windows more than 2 meters away from the plant, and maintain a 30-degree angle for ventilation for 1-2 hours. It is recommended to use a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor, ensuring that the temperature fluctuation does not exceed ±3°C during air circulation.
III. Light Management: Ensuring Photosynthesis
3.1 Maintenance of Light Compensation Point
In winter, Epipremnum aureum needs to maintain a light intensity of 2000-3000 lux, with a daily effective light duration of at least 4 hours. Actual measurements with a lux meter show that the light value at noon on a sunny day, 1.5 meters away from a south-facing window, can reach 3500 lux.
3.2 Application of Supplemental Lighting Technology
For environments with insufficient light, it is recommended to use full-spectrum plant supplemental lights, placed 40-50 cm away from the leaf surface, with 2-3 hours of supplemental lighting per day. Avoid direct LED bead illumination and use reflective lighting for better light absorption.
Through systematic regulation of the three elements of temperature, ventilation, and lighting, combined with weekly foliar application of a 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution, new leaves can usually be observed within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to use a microbial agent once a month in winter to enhance the plant's resistance, achieving a safe overwintering rate of Epipremnum aureum at over 95%.