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Best Fertilizer for Anthurium Plants | Care Guide

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Anthurium plants are beautiful, tropical plants that can thrive indoors with proper care. To help your anthurium plant flourish picking the right fertilizer is key. We will help you choose the best fertilizer that is specifically formulated for flowering plants and orchids. These fertilizers typically have a higher ratio of phosphorus to nitrogen, which promotes healthy blooms and foliage. Now there aren’t many Anthurium specific fertilizers but many plants with the same needs can share the same fertilizers. With proper care, they can thrive indoors and add a touch of tropical elegance to your home. 

fertilizers for anthurium

Here are two of the most common species of anthurium you can easily find:

  1. Anthurium andraeanum: This is the most commonly cultivated anthurium species, known for its large, heart-shaped spath (flower) in various colors, including red, pink, white, and orange. It is a popular choice for indoor houseplants due to its vibrant blooms and long-lasting flowering period.
  2. Anthurium scherzerianum: This species is also known as the flamingo flower or pigtail plant. It has a long, slender tail-like spath and vibrant red or orange flowers. It is a bit smaller and less common than Anthurium andraeanum, but it is still a popular choice for indoor houseplants due to its unique appearance and easy care requirements.

What is NPK?

​When researching fertilizers you will see NPK a lot! So let’s discuss this topic so you will be well versed when choosing the best fertilizer for anthurium. NPK stands for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), which are the three primary macronutrients that plants need to grow. These nutrients are essential for various plant functions, including leaf growth, root development, and flower and fruit production.

The NPK ratio on a fertilizer label indicates the percentage of each nutrient by weight. For example, a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-20-10 contains 10% nitrogen, 20% phosphorus, and 10% potassium.

  • Nitrogen (N): Nitrogen is essential for leaf growth and chlorophyll production. It is also a component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins.
  • Phosphorus (P): Phosphorus is essential for root development and flower and fruit production. It also helps plants to store and use energy.
  • Potassium (K): Potassium is essential for regulating water balance and nutrient uptake. It also helps plants to resist diseases.

The specific NPK ratio that a plant needs depends on the type of plant and its growth stage. For example, young plants typically need more nitrogen than phosphorus, while flowering and fruiting plants typically need more phosphorus than nitrogen.

It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label carefully to avoid over fertilizing your plants. Over fertilizing can damage the roots and burn the leaves and even kill the plant.

Best Fertilizer for Anthurium

  1. Better-Gro Orchid Plus Bloom Booster Fertilizer: This 16-ounce liquid fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 20-7-20, making it ideal for promoting flowering in anthuriums. It also contains micronutrients and humic acid to enhance overall plant health. Orchid fertilizer is great for Anthuriums
  2. Miracle-Gro Indoor Plant Food (Liquid): This 8-ounce liquid fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 24-8-16, which is also suitable for anthuriums. It is easy to use and provides a quick boost of nutrients to support healthy growth and flowering.
  3. Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Plus Outdoor & Indoor: This is a granular fertilizer that has an NPK ratio of 14-14-14 and release nutrients slowly over a period of up to 4 months. This makes them a convenient option for long-term fertilization of anthuriums.
  4. Espoma Houseplant Food: This organic liquid fertilizer has an NPK value of 2-3-2 and is derived from plant and animal sources. It is a gentle option for anthuriums and other houseplants and provides essential nutrients for healthy growth.

Remember to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for the correct application rate and frequency. Too much fertilizer can damage your anthurium plant, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

Granular fertilizers are a slow feed method and liquid fertilizers act as a quick feed for your plants. You get to decide what the right fertilizer is for your houseplants

Fertilizing your anthurium plant is essential for its healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Anthuriums are heavy feeders, but over fertilizing can damage the roots, so it’s important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label carefully.

Read 10 Houseplant Care Tips for beginners here!

How to Fertilize Anthuriums

Type of Fertilizer

Choose a balanced liquid fertilizer specifically formulated for flowering plants like orchids. These fertilizers typically have a higher ratio of phosphorus to nitrogen, which promotes healthy blooms and foliage.

Fertilizer Frequency

During their active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your anthurium every two to four weeks. In the fall and winter, when growth slows, reduce fertilization to once a month or less.

Fertilizer Dilution

In the winter dilute the liquid fertilizer to half strength to avoid over fertilizing when your plant is inactive. To do this, mix one part fertilizer and three parts water.

Watering Before Fertilizing

Always water your anthurium plant thoroughly before fertilizing. This helps the fertilizer dissolve properly and prevents root burn.

Application Method

Pour the fertilizer solution onto the soil around the base of the plant. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves or stems, as this can damage them.

After Fertilizing

Allow the excess fertilizer solution to drain completely before placing the pot back in its saucer.

Additional fertilizing Tips

  • If your anthurium plant starts to show signs of fertilizer stress, such as yellowing leaves or burned tips, reduce the fertilizer frequency or stop fertilizing altogether for a few weeks.
  • If you use slow-release fertilizer granules, follow the instructions on the package for the appropriate application rate and frequency.
  • Over time, nutrients can leach out of the potting mix, so it’s important to repot your anthurium every two to three years.

Best Homemade Fertilizers

Making your own homemade plant fertilizer is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to nourish your plants. Fertilizers made from organic matter are always a safe bet but measuring the NPK can be difficult without a lab at your disposal.

Here are a few simple fertilizer recipes you can try:

1. Banana Peel Tea:

Banana peels are rich in potassium, which is essential for healthy plant growth. To make banana peel tea, simply chop up two or three banana peels and add them to a gallon of water. Let the mixture steep for 24 hours, then strain out the peels and use the tea to water your plants.

2. Epsom Salt Solution:

Epsom salt is a magnesium sulfate compound that can help improve soil quality and promote healthy plant growth. To make an Epsom salt solution, dissolve one tablespoon of Epsom salt in a gallon of water. Use the solution to water your plants every two to four weeks.

3. Coffee Ground Fertilizer:

Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making them a great source of nutrients for plants. To use coffee grounds as fertilizer, simply add them directly to the potting mix or sprinkle them on top of the soil.

4. Eggshell Fertilizer:

Eggshells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong plant cell walls. To make eggshell fertilizer, crush eggshells into a fine powder and add them to the potting mix or sprinkle them on top of the soil.

5. Compost Tea:

Compost tea is a nutrient-rich liquid that can be made from compostable materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and manure. To make compost tea, steep compost in water for several hours or days, then strain out the solid

gly, as over fertilizing can damage your plants. It’s always a good idea to test a small amount of fertilizer on a single plant before applying it to all of your plants.

Anthurium Quick Care guide:

1. Provide Optimal Light:

Anthuriums prefer bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Place your plant near an east-facing window, where it can receive gentle morning sunlight without direct exposure to midday sun. Avoid placing your anthurium in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its delicate leaves.

2. Maintain Proper Temperature:

Anthuriums are tropical plants and prefer warm temperatures. Ideal temperatures for indoor anthuriums range from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Avoid placing your plant near drafts or vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations can cause stress to the plant.

3. Maintain Adequate Humidity:

Anthuriums grow best in humid environments. To increase humidity indoors, mist your plant regularly, especially during dry winter months. You can also place your anthurium on a pebble tray filled with water to increase humidity around the plant. Using a humidifier will provide continuous high humidity for your Anthurium.

4. Use Well-draining Potting Mix:

Anthuriums require a well-draining potting mix that allows water to pass through freely without becoming soggy. Opt for a mix specifically formulated for orchids or African violets, as these provide the right balance of aeration and moisture retention.

5. Water Thoroughly and Allow Soil to Dry:

Anthuriums prefer consistently moist soil but not soggy. Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the excess water to drain completely before placing the pot back in its saucer. During the winter season you can allow your Anthurium to dry out a little further as the plant isn’t as active.

6. Fertilize Regularly:

During their active growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your anthurium every two to four weeks using a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over fertilizing, as this can damage the roots.

7. Repot When Necessary:

As your anthurium grows, it may need repotting to a larger container to accommodate its expanding root system. Signs that your plant needs repotting include roots growing out of drainage holes, the plant becoming top-heavy, or the soil drying out quickly.

8. Monitor for Pests and Diseases:

Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat your plant promptly with an appropriate insecticide or horticultural oil.

For winter houseplant care tips read this!

Best Anthurium Potting mix

For best results use a well-draining, airy potting mix that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. Here’s a recipe for a soil mix that is ideal for anthuriums:

Ingredients:

  • 2 parts orchid bark or pine bark
  • 1 part perlite
  • 1 part coconut coir, peat moss or sphagnum moss
  • 1/8 part worm castings or compost

Instructions:

  1. Mix all of the ingredients together in a large container.
  2. Moisten the mix with water until it is evenly damp.
  3. Repot your anthurium plant in the new potting mix.

Additional Tips:

  • You can also add a small amount of charcoal to the potting mix to help improve drainage and aeration.
  • Be sure to choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
  • Water your anthurium plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
  • Fertilize your anthurium plant every two to four weeks during the growing season.

Now that you know how to choose the best fertilizer for anthurium you are well on your way to growing beautiful, healthy and happy plants!

Happy Gardening!

Philodendron Gloriosum Care Guide

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Philodendron gloriosum is a gorgeous tropical plant. It is a member of the Araceae family, which also includes other popular houseplants such as pothos and monstera. Philodendron gloriosum is known for its velvety, heart-shaped leaves with stunning veins. The leaves can be up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The veins on the leaves are typically white or silver, but can also be red or purple. Philodendron gloriosum is a relatively slow-growing plant, but it can reach up to 3 feet tall in ideal conditions.

The Philodendron Gloriosum care guide is easy to follow and will give you a solid base to begin growing a healthy plant!

How to grow Philodendron Gloriosum

Tools Needed

  • Light
  • Water
  • Soil
  • Humidity
  • Fertilizer

Philodendron Gloriosum Care

Light

Philodendron Gloriosum prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. A south- or east-facing window is ideal. If your home does not have a lot of natural light, you can supplement with a grow light.

Watering

Philodendron gloriosum likes to be kept moist, but it is important to avoid overwatering. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. If the leaves start to droop, it is a sign that the plant is thirsty.

Philodendron Soil

Philodendron gloriosum needs a well-draining potting mix. A good mix for this plant is equal parts potting mix, perlite, and orchid bark.

Humidity

Philodendron Gloriosum prefers humid conditions. If you live in a dry climate, you can increase the humidity around your plant by placing it on a pebble tray, grouping plants together or the best option adding in a humidifier.

Philodendron Fertilizer

Fertilize your philodendron gloriosum once a month during the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength and water your plant with plain water before fertilizing.

Repotting Philodendron Gloriosum

P. Gloriosum does not need to be repotted often. When it does need to be repotted, choose a pot that is two sizes larger than the current pot. This is a crawling philodendron which means it grows across the soil as oppose to vertically like the Monstera or Philodendron Prince of orange.

How to Propagate Philodendron Gloriosum

The Philodendron Gloriosum can be propagated by stem cuttings. To propagate, take a cutting from a healthy stem that is at least 6 inches long. Make sure the cutting has at least one leaf node. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a moist potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light location. Roots should form within a few weeks.

To propagate by air layering, make a small cut in a healthy stem and wrap the cut with moist sphagnum moss. Secure the sphagnum moss in place with plastic wrap or foil. Keep the sphagnum moss moist and roots should form within a few weeks. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the roots and plant the new plant in a pot.

If you love the Philodendron Gloriosum then you’ll love the Monstera Thai Constellation! Learn about the Thai Con Here!

Common Philodendron Gloriosum pests and diseases

The Philodendron Gloriosum is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. If you see any pests on your plant, isolate it from other plants and treat it with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Philodendron gloriosum is also susceptible to root rot, which is caused by overwatering.

If you suspect root rot, remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. If the roots are black and mushy, trim them off and repot the plant in fresh potting mix.

Philodendron Gloriosum Types

  • White Veins
  • Green Veins
  • Round Form
  • Dark Form
  • Pink Back
  • White Stripes
  • Variegated

The different Gloriosum types come with many different price tags so know your budget before seeking out these beauties. They can come with a hefty price tag.

With these helpful tips your Philodendron Gloriosum will thrive for many years to come!

Happy Gardening!

How to Grow Alocasia Bambino

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Alocasia Bambino is a cute small houseplant! Alocasia bambino is a dwarf variety of Alocasia Amazonica, which is a native of Southeast Asia. It has narrow leaves with pronounced white veins. The undersides of the leaves are burgundy. Alocasia bambino typically grows to be about 12 inches tall and wide which makes it perfect for small spaces.

Alocasia Bambino is now one of the most popular Alocasia cultivars in the world. It is easy to care for and makes a beautiful addition to any home.

How to Grow Alocasia Bambino

  • Light: Alocasia bambino prefers bright indirect light. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its leaves. If you do not have access to bright indirect light, you can supplement your plant’s light with a grow light.
  • Temperature: Alocasia likes warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or air conditioning vents.
  • Humidity: Alocasia requires high humidity to thrive. If your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, or grouping it with other plants.
  • Watering: Alocasia bambino likes moist soil, but it does not like to sit in water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
  • Soil: Alocasia prefers a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can use a pre-made potting mix for Alocasia or make your own by mixing together equal parts potting mix, peat moss, and perlite.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilize your Alocasia plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength before applying it to your plant.
  • Repotting: Alocasia are fast growers and may need to be repotted every year or two. Repot your plant in the spring, using a pot that is one size larger than its current pot.

Alocasia Propagation:

Alocasia Bambino can be propagated by division or by corm

To propagate by division, remove your plant from its pot and gently divide the rhizome (underground stem) into two or more pieces. Make sure that each piece has at least one root and one leaf. Repot the divisions in individual pots and water them well.

To propagate by corm propagation, remove the corms (small tubers) from the rhizome of your plant. Plant the corms in individual pots filled with moist potting mix. Water the pots well and place them in a warm, humid location. The corms should sprout within a few weeks.

Common Alocasia Bambino problems

  • Brown leaf tips: This can be caused by low humidity or overwatering.
  • Yellowing leaves: This can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient deficiency.
  • Leaf drop: This can be caused by stress from sudden temperature changes, drafts, or overwatering.
  • Spider mites: Spider mites are a common pest for Alocasia plants. Check your foliage often and treat accordingly.

Here are 10 easy-to-grow Alocasia:

  1. Alocasia bambino
  2. Alocasia Polly
  3. Alocasia Zebrina
  4. Alocasia Regal Shield
  5. Alocasia Lauterbachiana
  6. Alocasia Black Velvet
  7. Alocasia Dragon Scale
  8. Alocasia Silver Dragon
  9. Alocasia Stingray
  10. Alocasia Macrorrhiza Taro

These Alocasia varieties are all relatively easy to care for, and they can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm climates. They all require bright, indirect light, moist soil, and high humidity. However, they are not as sensitive to fluctuations in temperature or humidity as some other Alocasia cultivars.

With proper care, these Alocasia plants can thrive for many years and produce stunning foliage that will add a touch of tropical flair to any home.

Happy Gardening!

How to Grow BIG Alocasia Houseplants

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Alocasia plants are known for their BIG, lush leaves, and some varieties, such as the colocasia elephant ear and stingray alocasia, can grow quite large. Growing a big Alocasia doesn’t always mean big leaves. It can also mean a full lush plant depending on the variety. If you want to grow a big lush alocasia, there are a few things you can do:

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How to Grow Big Alocasia Elephant Ear Plants

  • Bright indirect light: Alocasias need bright indirect light to thrive. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch their leaves. If you do not have access to bright indirect light, you can supplement your plant’s light with a grow light.
  • Warm temperatures: Alocasias prefer warm temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or air conditioning vents.
  • High humidity: Alocasias require high humidity to thrive. If your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, or adding in a humidifier.
  • Moist soil: Alocasias like moist soil, but they don’t like to sit in water. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
  • Well-draining soil: Alocasias prefer a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. You can use a pre-made potting mix for alocasias or make your own by mixing together equal parts potting mix, peat moss, and perlite.
  • Regular fertilization: Fertilize your alocasia plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength before applying it to your plant.
  • Regular repotting: Alocasias are fast growers and may need to be repotted every year or two. Repot your plant in the spring, using a pot that is one size larger than its current pot.
  • Be Consistent: This is the most important tip of all. Being consistent with care and attend to your plant when issues arrive and handling them swiftly

In addition to the above conditions, there are a few other things you can do to encourage your alocasia plants to grow big:

  • Use a large pot: Alocasias have large root systems, so it is important to use a pot that is large enough to accommodate their roots. If you pot your alocasia in a pot that is too small, it will not be able to grow to its full potential. Repot when you see roots above the soil line or are coming out of the bottom of the pot.
  • Provide support: Alocasias have large, heavy leaves, so it is important to provide them with support to prevent the leaves from drooping or breaking. You can use a stake or moss pole to support your alocasia plant. Leaves typically droop when they are old or not getting enough light.
  • Be patient: Alocasias are slow-growing plants, so it takes time for them to grow big. Be patient and provide your plant with the proper care, and it will eventually grow into a large and beautiful specimen.

Alocasia Reminders:

  • Choose the right variety: Some varieties of alocasia are naturally larger than others. When choosing a variety to grow indoors, look for a variety that is known to grow large.
  • Fertilize regularly: Alocasias are heavy feeders, so it is important to fertilize them regularly during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is diluted to half strength.
  • Provide a humid environment: Alocasias thrive in humid environments. If your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly, placing it on a pebble tray filled with water, grouping it with other plants or better yet adding in a humidifier.
  • Protect from pests and diseases: Alocasias are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases. Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests or diseases, and treat them immediately if you find any.

Growing big lush Alocasia can take time so have patience and be consistent with your care. If you are struggling just remember you can always start over and try again.

Happy Gardening!

Houseplants and Biophilic Home Design

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Many plant lovers have began incorporating Biophilic design into their homes. Biophilic home design has been known to provide so many benefits to our health but what exactly is Biophilic design in relation to indoor gardening.

Biophilic home design

Biophilic design is a concept that incorporates natural elements into the built environment. This can include things like plants, natural materials, and views of nature. Biophilic design has been shown to have a number of benefits for both physical and mental health. I have change my home to create a more biophilic design that benefits my mental health and you can too.

Benefits of biophilic design for physical health:

  • Improved air quality: Plants can help to improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen.
  • Reduced stress levels: Studies have shown that exposure to nature can help to reduce stress levels and improve mood.
  • Improved sleep quality: Being exposed to natural light and darkness can help to regulate our circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality.

Benefits of biophilic design for mental health:

  • Increased creativity: Studies have shown that exposure to nature can boost creativity and problem-solving skills.
  • Improved mood: Spending time in nature has been shown to improve mood and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
  • Increased well-being: Biophilic design has been shown to improve overall well-being and quality of life.

How to Create a biophilic home

  • Add houseplants: Plants are one of the simplest and most effective ways to add biophilic elements to your home. Choose plants that are appropriate for your climate and indoor environment.
  • Use natural materials: Natural materials like wood, stone, and textiles can help to create a more calming and relaxing atmosphere.
  • Add views of nature: If possible, try to incorporate views of nature into your home. This could include a window that overlooks your garden or a balcony\ patio with plants.
  • Use water features: Water features can help to create a sense of calm and serenity in your home. The sound of water is so soothing.
  • Open your windows: Allowing air to flow through your home connects you to nature and can provide bird and other soothing animal noises.

Add in any or all of the suggested elements above to create your own biophilic home design. You will not be disappointed.

Happy Gardening!

10 Houseplant Care Tips for Beginners

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Houseplants are a great way to add life and beauty to your home, and they are also be a rewarding hobby for people of all skill levels. If you follow these houseplant care tips, you can grow healthy and thriving houseplants for many years to come. There are so many different types of houseplants to choose from, so you’re sure to find some that are perfect for your home.

Houseplant Care Tips

  1. Choose the right plants for your home. Not all plants are created equal, so it’s important to choose plants that will thrive in the conditions of your home. If you have a lot of natural light, you can choose from a wider variety of plants. If your home is on the darker side, you’ll need to choose plants that are more tolerant of low light.
  2. Water your plants regularly. The amount of water your plants need will vary depending on the type of plant, the size of the pot, and the climate you live in. A good rule of thumb is to water your plants when the top inch of soil is dry.
  3. Fertilize your plants regularly. Fertilizing your plants will help them to grow healthy and strong. You can use a liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer.
  4. Repot your plants as needed. When your plants outgrow their pots, you’ll need to repot them into a larger pot. This will give their roots more room to grow.
  5. Prune your plants regularly. Pruning your plants will help them to stay healthy and to look their best. You can prune your plants to remove dead or diseased leaves, to shape them, or to encourage new growth.
  6. Watch out for pests and diseases. Indoor plants can be susceptible to pests and diseases. If you see any problems, take action immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.
  7. Place your plants in the right spot. Some plants need more light than others, so it’s important to place your plants in the right spot in your home. If you’re not sure how much light a plant needs, ask a nursery professional for help.
  8. Use the right potting mix. The potting mix you use will affect the health of your plants. Choose a potting mix that is specifically designed for indoor plants.
  9. Water your plants from the bottom. This will help to prevent the leaves from getting wet, which can lead to problems.
  10. Be patient. It takes time for plants to grow. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results immediately. Just keep caring for your plants, and they will eventually thrive.

Read this post for 9 Houseplant Styling tips you need to know!

Bringing plants into your home is a great way to feel more connected to nature and to add beauty into much needed spaces inside. I hope these tips help you to grow beautiful and healthy indoor plants.

Happy Gardening