Growing Anthuriums at home – A Complete Guide

Anthuriums, also referred to as flamingo flowers, are stunning and charming tropical plants that are present in shades of red, green, and white. The plant is native to Central America and the Caribbean; however, this does not mean that you cannot grow this plant in your own garden. With the right growing conditions and proper care, even you can grow an Anthurium plant with ease. This guide will provide you with the right conditions that you need to provide to the plant. 

• Light  

Anthuriums like light, yet harsh sun can burn the leaves. If light is too weak, the plant grows slowly and makes fewer blooms. A good spot gives about six hours of bright light that is not directly blazing.

Put the plant close to a south or west window. Keep it out of the sun’s direct path. A sheer curtain helps soften the light. You can also place the pot near the window, not right in it, so it stays in bright shade.

• Soil  

Use a potting mix that drains fast. The mix should also stay airy so roots get oxygen. Mosses and cocoa coir work well. A mix of orchid potting medium and regular houseplant mix, about half and half, is also fine.

If you want a rougher texture, add sand and some peat moss to the orchid mix. The goal is a coarse blend that does not hold water too long.

• Water  

Keep the soil a bit damp. Do not let it dry all the way. Many indoor plants do best with watering about once a week, or when the top layer feels dry to the touch. Water until it comes out from the drainage holes.

Do not leave the pot sitting in water. Anthuriums can get root rot if they stay wet too long. Outdoors, water needs can be higher. In that setting, you may need to water every two to three days.

• Temperature and Humidity  

These plants come from tropical areas. They do well when humidity is high and temperatures are between 65°F and 85°F. You can grow them outside in zones 11 to 12. Cold is a problem. Below 60°F the plant can suffer. If it drops to around 40°F, the plant may die back.

In dry areas, especially in winter, use a pebble tray. This helps keep the air around the plant more humid. You might also need a humidifier through the dry season.

• Fertilizer  

Feed with a liquid fertilizer that has high phosphorus. Use it during the active growing period. Dilute it to one quarter strength. Feed about once each week. More phosphorus helps push the plant toward flowering.

Source: Abodelook