Anthurium

Anthurium Care

Includes species and cultivars such as crystallinum, clarinervium and ‘Silver Blush’. 

Most anthuriums are epiphytes, native to the canopies of the tropical rainforest. They use their roots to anchor themselves onto trees and gather water and nutrients from the atmosphere rather than relying on their roots obtaining water from underground soil.  This method of survival also enables the plant to live high up in the tree’s canopies, gaining far more access to bright light than a typical rainforest floor dweller would naturally get.  This insight into their natural habitat is the key to their success!  Don’t panic, we are not suggesting you turn your living room into a scene of The Jungle Book.  It simply gives us a good idea of the key environmental factors such as light, water and of course, humidity that we ideally need to replicate for these plants to thrive in our homes!

General care.

• Medium to bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as this will scorch the leaves.
• Warm!  Ideally no lower than 16° and anything up to 30°.
• Water when the top of the soil begins to dry. Do not over water as this will cause the roots to rot and be mindful, you will be required to water less in the winter months. (If you can, get used to the weight of the pot before and after watering.  This can be an effective measure in the future, providing watering is your responsibility that is).
• Ideally between 60 and 80%. Regular misting or my favourite method of pebble tray with water can easily recreate the desired humidity levels.
• Your Anthurium will benefit from monthly feeds during the growing season.  Depending on what type of Anthurium you have and what you want from it, i.e. strong, green leaves or big, bold blooms will depend on the NPK ratio you use but a good all rounder can be a *10.10.10 mix.  
• Well-draining and rich in organic matter. Anthuriums are slow growers and only need repotting every 2 to 3 years.

*NPK 10.10.10- Basically, equal amounts of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium

Common issues

Watering.  Over and underwatering are the most common causes of unhealthy Anthuriums.  If you are in doubt, you would be better to allow the plant to dry out between watering.  Although not enough water can cause flowers to drop and leaves to crisp.  However, too much water, will cause the roots to rot. Yellowing or browning of the leaves is another strong indication that there are watering issues, usually too much!

Pests. The two most common culprits are spider mite and thrips.  There are various ways in which to manage this.  We favour biological control but there is an array of treatments out there that are just as effective, the key is to be vigilant and identify and treat before they get out of hand.

Brown leaf tips.  Not enough humidity.

Crispy leaves.  Not enough water.

Scorched marks on leaves.  Too much sun.  Move away from window!