Aloe vera has its origins in warm and dry areas. It survives long dry periods without water because it can store water in its leaves. However, this ability becomes her downfall in frost.
How can frost damage to aloe vera be avoided and treated?
To avoid frost damage to Aloe Vera, the plant should be brought into a warm place by September at the latest. In case of frost damage: place the plant in a bright and warm place, avoid direct sun, do not water for a few days, remove damaged leaves and check the roots.
Aloe vera is one of the so-called leaf succulents, the plants that use their leaves as water storage organs. The leaves of he althy aloe are plump, the outer skin is smooth and shiny. The cold-sensitive aloe plant can be damaged even at temperatures below 5° Celsius. The water stored in the leaves freezes, the leaf tissue is destroyed and dies.
Avoid frost damage if possible
The frost damage can be recognized by glassy, softened leaves, which later turn dark and die. In older, strong plants, only the tips of the leaves or individual parts of the leaves may be affected. Prolonged exposure to cold can also damage the roots of the aloe.
To avoid such damage, you should bring your aloe that has been left outside in the summer back into the warmth in September at the latest. The aloes can be overwintered at normal room temperatures without any problems. If you keep them cooler in winter (approx. 10-15° Celsius), this promotes flower formation. In this case, you should water your aloe very little and not fertilize it.
Remedy for frost damage
Depending on the duration and severity of the frost as well as the general condition of the aloe, various measures can save the plant:
- First place the aloe in a bright and warm place, avoid direct sun,
- Do not water the plant for a few days to weeks, so that the damaged leaves dry out and may fall off,
- Carefully remove the damaged plant parts, if necessary cut them off with a clean knife,
- If the damage is more severe, also check the roots and, if necessary, let them dry or cut them off.
If after a while new he althy leaves appear in the center of the aloe vera, your aloe vera has recovered.
Tips & Tricks
You should also take care of your aloe when airing it out for a long time in winter and it is better not to leave the pot near an open window.
