HYDERABAD: If you’re in Delhi, Mumbai, or Hyderabad, here’s a heads-up: you might want to think twice before bringing home an Anthurium. Those in cooler, hilly regions might have better luck—but tread carefully! Why the warning?
Speaking from experience (and after a small fortune spent), I found that my Anthuriums rarely matched the vibrant blooms they displayed at the nursery. After visiting multiple propagation centers and plant importers, here’s what I’ve learned about this glossy beauty.
The reason? The hot climate of most cities just doesn’t suit this plant’s high expectations. But let’s not rule it out completely—when given the right conditions, Anthuriums can indeed add a touch of elegance to your home.
Light and watering needs
These plants thrive in medium to bright light, making them ideal for spots without direct sun exposure. Just remember to go easy on the watering; Anthuriums like their roots on the drier side, so let the soil’s top inch dry out before watering again.
Soil and fertiliser
They do best in regular potting mix, enriched with a balanced fertiliser during their growing season. Being heavy feeders, they’ll reward you with lush leaves and colorful blooms if well-nourished.
Temperature considerations
Anthuriums enjoy moderate temperatures 12-22oC, so they’re best suited for climate-controlled, indoor environments. Keep them comfortable and away from temperature extremes.
Troubleshooting common issues
Having trouble with an Anthurium that just won’t bloom? Try placing it in a brighter spot — somewhere with enough light to comfortably read by, but still without direct sunlight.
If you notice that the flowers look lighter or pale, don’t stress — some Anthurium varieties naturally produce softer shades of red or pink. However, if you’re set on getting those vibrant blooms, consider using an inorganic fertilizer like an NPK mix designed for flowering. Alternatively, you could try adding G5 for an organic but effective boost in flower production.
Propagation tips
These plants can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or by dividing an existing plant. The latter is often the easiest — just separate part of the root and stem, repot, and watch it grow!
Super tip
If your Anthurium still won’t bloom, try this trick: Add a handful of bone meal to a medium-sized pot (8-10 inches deep), trim back the plant’s tips, and set it on an east- or west-facing balcony. A bit of gentle morning or evening sun can encourage flowering, after which you can return it to a shadier indoor spot. Anthuriums can be a challenge, but with the right care, they’ll reward you with those stunning, glossy blooms. Just remember, they may need a little extra TLC to thrive in city climates!