Overview
This lecture provides an updated guide on nutrient solutions and fertilization practices for Anthurium and similar plants, covering essential nutrients, product selection, mixing protocols, and troubleshooting common issues.
Nutrient Solution Basics
- Brand choice is less important; focus on matching nutrient composition and percentages.
- Hydroponic fertilizers from different brands generally provide similar results if their analysis matches.
- Using a complete feed across all plant types (e.g., Anthurium, orchids, ferns) simplifies care.
Essential Nutrients and Additives
- Start with a three-part hydroponic fertilizer plus Cal-Mag (calcium and magnesium) for basic needs.
- Add humic and fulvic acids to enhance nutrient uptake and support beneficial soil microbes.
- Kelp extract provides additional sulfur and iron, boosting plant health and color.
- Silica supplement increases cell wall strength, improves leaf expansion, and provides resilience.
- A root accelerator can help develop denser, more robust root systems.
Mixing & Application Protocols
- Add silica to the nutrient solution first, then wait 20–30 minutes before adding Cal-Mag and other nutrients to avoid chemical lockout.
- Always adjust the pH of the nutrient solution to 4.5–4.9 for optimal nutrient uptake.
- Use calibration solutions with pH probes to ensure accurate measurement.
- Use reservoir pots to reduce watering frequency; full nutrient solution is typically replaced monthly.
Diagnosing and Preventing Deficiencies
- Sulfur is vital for Anthurium; allows proper uptake of Cal-Mag and nitrogen.
- Cal-Mag deficiencies can cause leaf yellowing and poor growth; sulfur deficiency limits Cal-Mag absorption.
- Silica deficiency results in warped or weakened leaves; supplement as needed.
- Flush the substrate periodically with filtered water to prevent salt buildup.
Seedling and Young Plant Care
- Fertilize seedlings lightly; wait until 4–5 leaves before regular feeding to prevent nutrient lockout.
- If nutrient lockout occurs, wash roots and repot in fresh substrate before resuming fertilization.
Environmental Considerations
- Lower substrate pH (below 5) decreases risk of root rot and matches Anthurium's natural habitat.
- Healthy plants are more resistant to fungal issues, even with low airflow.
Monitoring and Adjustments
- Check dissolved solids (PPM) in nutrient solution; target around 700 PPM.
- Increase or decrease fertilizer based on plant appearance (e.g., yellowing for deficiency, burning for excess).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Hydroponics — Growing plants in nutrient-rich water instead of soil.
- Cal-Mag — Supplement containing calcium and magnesium, essential for plant health.
- Humic/Fulvic Acids — Organic compounds that improve nutrient absorption and soil microbiome.
- Silica — Strengthens cell walls, improving resilience and leaf quality.
- Nutrient Lockout — Condition where nutrients become unavailable due to chemical interactions or buildup.
- PPM (Parts Per Million) — Measurement of dissolved solids (fertilizer) in water.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Compare your fertilizer's nutrient analysis to recommended values.
- Adjust your mixing routine to add silica first and pH adjust properly.
- Monitor pH and PPM regularly; calibrate equipment as needed.
- Flush substrate with filtered water monthly to prevent salt buildup.
- Begin regular feeding for seedlings only after 4–5 leaves have developed.