How to Care for Aloe Vera in Summer
The scorching summer is a crucial period for the growth of aloe vera, a succulent plant that is averse to both stuffy heat and intense sunlight. Mastering the correct care methods can not only prevent leaf burn but also allow aloe vera to continue thriving throughout the summer. This article will provide a comprehensive plan for safely getting aloe vera through the summer, focusing on five dimensions, including light control and water and fertilizer management.
Three Key Points for Environmental Control in Summer
Shading Techniques and Duration of Light Exposure
Use a shading net from 10 am to 4 pm to maintain a 50% light transmission rate. It is recommended to use a double-layer shading method: an outer layer of black shading net with 40% light blocking rate combined with an inner layer of bamboo curtains, which can filter strong light and ensure ventilation.
Control of Day-Night Temperature Difference
Reduce the temperature by misting in the morning and evening to maintain a day-night temperature difference of about 8°C. During the high-temperature noon hours, sprinkle water on the ground to increase humidity. Be careful to avoid leaving water droplets in the concave parts of the leaves to prevent sunburn spots.
Golden Rules for Water and Fertilizer Management
Precise Watering Schedule
Water in the early morning (6-8 am) or after 7 pm in the evening, using the immersion method to allow the soil to absorb water fully. Extend the watering cycle to every 10-12 days, and water again when the top 3 cm of the soil is completely dry.
Principle of Applying Thin Fertilizer Frequently
Switch to a liquid fertilizer diluted 2000 times and supplement with trace element fertilizers containing calcium and magnesium every 20 days. You can bury 5-8 slow-release fertilizer pellets around the pot edge to provide nutrients continuously without burning the roots.
Key Steps in Substrate Care
Prepare a mixed substrate of珍珠岩 (perlite):蛭石 (vermiculite):腐叶土 (decayed leaf soil) = 3:2:5, and change the potting soil at the beginning of June each year. When repotting, retain 1/3 of the protective soil, trim the decayed roots, and apply charcoal powder for disinfection.
By scientifically managing light exposure, precisely controlling water and fertilizer, and changing the substrate at the right time, aloe vera can not only safely survive the summer but also accumulate nutrients to promote a burst of growth after autumn. It is recommended to regularly wipe the leaf surface with alcohol wipes to keep the stomata unobstructed, ensuring that your aloe vera remains green and upright even in the midst of summer.