Plant Doctor Archive

My anthurium won't flower

About two years ago a friend gave me an anthurium and when I got it, it had lovely flowers. But once the flowers died the leaves started going a bit yellow and brown at the ends. Most is still green, but it hasn't flowered since I got it.

Anthurium or Flamingo Flower are spectacular indoor houseplants, although they are not the easiest plants to grow. To successfully flower they require warm temperatures, regular feeding, low light, high humidity and need to be kept moist at all times.

Keep in a situation that has even, warm temperatures that do not fluctuate too much. Feed regularly with Osmocote controlled-release fertiliser every three months and liquid feed using a soluble fertiliser such as Thrive Flower and Fruit or Phostrogen.

Unlike a lot of indoor houseplants, anthuriums enjoy low light rather than bright light. To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly with water, or place pebbles in the pot saucer and top up with water regularly, but do not let the plant sit in water. Keep the potting mix moist, giving a little water every couple of days so that the mix does not dry out, but again do not let the plant sit in water as this will cause the roots to rot.

The yellowing of the foliage and brown ends are an indication of cold temperatures and lack of humidity. Move the plant to a warm location and regularly mist the leaves or place pebbles in the saucer.

Advice by Dr Dan Blanchon from Unitec's Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture and Bachelor of Resource Management.

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