Cold-Stressed Lychee and Avocado: Covering Traps Moisture, Causes Desiccation

Why Covered Plants Show "Drought" Symptoms

Plants covered for 3 nights without watering develop dried, brown leaves that mimic drought damage. The covering traps transpired moisture, creates high humidity, then the foliage freezes or desiccates when uncovered into cold, dry air.

The Scratch Test Is Your Diagnostic Tool

Scratch the trunk bark:

• Green: Cold stress only – will shed leaves and reflush
• Brown: Likely dead – cambium killed

Care for Living but Stressed Trees

1. Water weekly (not more – roots are compromised)
2. Do not fertilize
3. Do not prune yet
4. Let nature drive recovery

The avocado showing green is fine. The lychee's fate depends on whether the root system survived the covered period. Patience reveals the answer.