Anthurium Care: Humidity, Light and Blooms
Anthuriums are glossy, heart-shaped plants with long-lasting blooms. They come from humid tropical forests, so their care centers on humidity and gentle light. Get those right and an anthurium will flower for months.
Light
Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun on the leaves and flowers, which can scorch leaves and fade blooms quickly. Too little light means fewer blooms.
Humidity
The most important factor. A humidifier works best. A pebble tray with water below the pot, where the pot sits on pebbles and not in water, also helps. Misting helps only briefly.
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist, never soggy. Let the top dry slightly between waterings, and never let the pot stand in water.
Temperature and soil
Between about 65 and 85°F. Protect from cold drafts. Use a chunky, well-draining mix with bark or perlite, in a pot with a drainage hole.
Why has my anthurium stopped flowering?
The most common reason is low humidity or low light. Move the plant to a brighter spot, add humidity, and make sure the soil is not staying wet. Blooms take time to develop, so give the plant a few weeks after the change. Feed every few weeks in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer at half strength, and stop in fall and winter.
Why are the leaves yellow or brown?
Brown edges usually mean dry air. Yellow leaves with soft roots point to overwatering. Old lower leaves yellowing and dropping is normal.
Common problems
Low light or low humidity.
Dry air.
Overwatering.
Anthuriums at Palma
We grow 'Red' and 'Pink' anthuriums. Their flowers come in different shades, but the needs are identical: bright indirect light, steady moisture and high humidity.
