How to spend the winter outdoors with aloe vera
As a star variety among succulent plants, aloe vera is favored by gardening enthusiasts for its unique shape and air-purifying function. However, the low temperature environment poses a severe challenge to the growth of aloe vera. Based on the winter climate of-5℃ to 10℃ in the northern region, this paper systematically analyzes the four key technologies for outdoor aloe vera to overwinter. Light control strategy Full sunshine site selection principle In winter, an unobstructed terrace or courtyard area facing south should be selected to ensure ≥6 hours of direct light per day. Experimental data shows that the temperature of aloe vera leaves that receive sufficient light can be increased by 3-5 ° C compared with the ambient temperature, effectively preventing freezing damage. The physical protection plan The multi-layer covering technology adopts the "double-layer protection method": the inner layer is wrapped with non-woven fabric, and the outer layer is covered with a transparent and thick plastic bag (recommended thickness of 0.08mm). When the temperature is lower than-3℃, it is necessary to fill the bag with dry straw to form an insulation layer, and pay attention to reserve a breather hole with a diameter of 5 cm on the top of the bag. Water management key gradient water control method establishes a temperature-watering cycle comparison table: pour 100ml of warm water (25℃) along the edge of the pot every 15 days above 5℃; pour 50ml per month at 0-5℃; stop watering below 0℃. Monitor with soil hygrometer to maintain substrate moisture content ≤30%. Nutrient fortification measures cold-resistant fertilization 20 days before frost application of phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer (N-P-K=5-10-10), 15g per plant with 5 g ferrous sulfate. It is suggested to adopt annular ditch construction method, open annular ditch with depth of 5 cm at 8cm from root, and irrigate fixed root water after covering soil.
Through the four-dimensional protection system, the survival rate of aloe in the environment of-10 DEG C can reach more than 92%. Attention should be paid to three transition period management: strengthening light accumulation in early winter (November), strict water control in late winter (December-January), and gradual removal of protection in early spring (February). Regularly observe the condition of the leaves. If brown spots appear, an emergency insulation plan should be activated immediately.