The Correct Way to Water Aloe Vera
The editor will explain the correct way to water aloe vera and share some experience in green plant maintenance, including tips on aloe vera care. Let's dive into this together.
Aloe vera is a perennial herb that stays green all year round. This plant has a strong survival ability and can be used for both ornamental purposes and air purification by absorbing harmful gases. It also has excellent benefits for skincare. Many plant enthusiasts grow aloe vera in pots at home, but they may not be familiar with the proper way to care for it. To grow aloe vera well, one must learn the maintenance methods, especially how to water it correctly. Let's discuss some issues related to aloe vera cultivation.
1. Choosing a Pot
When growing aloe vera, choose a pot that is appropriately sized. If the plant is large and the pot is small, it can affect the plant's growth. If the plant is small and the pot is large, the soil in the pot will not dry easily after watering, leading to root rot over time.
2. Choosing Soil
The soil should be fertile and well-draining. Enthusiasts can mix their own nutrient-rich soil, which consists of humus soil, coarse sand, and garden soil, in a ratio of 2:1:1. The proportion of coarse sand should not be too high because sandy soil has poor water and nutrient retention, which can affect the plant's growth.
3. Light Conditions
Aloe vera is a plant that thrives in sunlight and heat. Adequate light is beneficial for its growth. Aloe vera should be provided with at least 7 hours of sunlight each day, and it should be shaded appropriately in the summer to prevent sunburn.
4. Temperature and Humidity
The ideal temperature range for aloe vera growth is between 15°C and 30°C. A temperature of around 20°C is the most suitable for growth. If the temperature drops below 0°C, the plant will quickly die. If the temperature exceeds 30°C, the plant will also wither. In the summer, the plant needs to be sprayed with water to increase air humidity and also to cool down.
5. Fertilization Management
Fertilizing aloe vera mainly involves using phosphate calcium or compound fertilizers. When the temperature is high and the plant grows quickly, more fertilizer can be applied. When the temperature is low and the plant grows slowly, less fertilizer is needed.
6. Watering Management
In spring, maintaining a temperature between 15°C and 20°C is most beneficial for aloe vera growth. The frequency of watering should be increased appropriately, generally once a week is sufficient.
In summer, with hot weather and high temperatures, watering every two to three days is enough, and water should also be sprayed on the leaves in the morning and evening.
In autumn, the watering method is similar to that in spring. If the environment is too dry, water can be sprayed appropriately. When watering aloe vera in autumn, follow the principle of not watering until the soil is dry, and make sure to water thoroughly each time.
In winter, with cold weather and low temperatures, watering once every half a month is sufficient. Water can be sprayed on the leaves, but the potting soil should remain dry.
7. Propagation Methods
There are mainly two methods of propagating aloe vera: division and cutting. For potted aloe vera, most people choose cutting propagation.
8. Disease Prevention and Control
During the growth of aloe vera, if rust occurs, the diseased leaves should be removed and destroyed promptly.
If brown spot or leaf spot disease occurs, you can spray a fungicide solution like benomyl. Spray every three weeks, and three to four times a year is sufficient.
The detailed explanation provided above on the correct way to water aloe vera and related maintenance tips hope to assist you in green plant management!