Anthurium plant care tips and advice
Anthuriums are spectacular plants to behold and they have a wonderful way of brightening up even the dullest of corners. Of course, just like any other houseplant, proper anthurium plant care is essential if you want it to thrive and grow. Here are some important flower facts and details about what this plant needs.
About anthuriums
Anthurium plant care begins with understanding the nature of the plant itself. One interesting fact to note is that they do not produce blooms in the traditional sense. Instead, you will notice something called spathes in the most beautiful shade of red. The plant blooms throughout the year and the blooms will last for up to eight weeks. In between growth periods, you can expect a rest period of almost three months.
Anthurium plant origins
This plant is native to the rainforests of the Caribbean and South America. They enjoy filtered bright light and plenty of humidity. Understanding the natural environment from which these plants come is very important in order to help recreate their environment at home. It is also important to note that the plant possesses toxic properties so wear gloves when handling them and keep them away from pets.
What your plant needs
As briefly mentioned above, this plant needs humidity as well as indirect light. In order to create a higher level of humidity, you simply need to place your pot on a tray of pebbles. Add some water to this tray and top it up as needed. The water will not come in contact with the potting soil which means that it will not make the soil soggy and cause root rot. It will, however, evaporate and create a higher level of humidity immediately around your anthurium plant.
Suitable soil
Each plant has different needs when it comes to the soil in which they are planted. It is also important to note that when you keep your plants in pots, the soil they need will differ from that which they would enjoy when planted outdoors. This is mainly due to factors like drainage. For your anthurium plant, you will need a mix of multi-purpose, peat-free, compost (soil based) or you can use orchid compost if this is easier to find.
What about water?
Water is essential for all plants but your watering schedule and methods will differ based on the plant itself. For your anthuriums. You will need to insert your finger into the soil and feel if it is dry below just the surface. If so, it is time to water. If not, wait a couple more days. When watering, do so in your sink, tub or outside and allow all the excess water to drain away before placing the pot back on the drainage tray. If water gathers in this tray, empty it out because it will keep the soil soggy and this causes the roots to rot. You should also take this opportunity to dust the leaves of your plant.
Lighting needs
To help your anthurium plant thrive, you need to make sure that it is placed in a room where it will not be exposed to extreme heat or cold temperatures. It will also need as much indirect light as possible which is why many people choose to placing in areas like bathrooms where there is light and humidity.
With these handy tips in mind, you can be sure that your anthurium plant will most certainly grow and bloom time and time again. Even if you bought it when it was in bloom, the most rewarding part of plant care is when you are able to help the plant produce blooms again after its rest period. This shows that your plant really is happy and healthy.