What causes yellowing leaves on water-cultured Anthurium and how to deal with it
Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) is suitable for soil cultivation and also for hydroponics. However, some flower growers have found that yellowing leaves on water-cultured Anthurium are quite common. So, what causes the leaves of hydroponic Anthurium to yellow so easily? How should this situation be handled once it occurs? This article aims to give a brief introduction to the above questions.
The growth habits of Anthurium are a preference for environments with high air humidity and good drainage, and a liking for shade, warmth and heat. The causes of yellowing leaves in hydroponic Anthurium may include the following: water not being added in time in the hydroponic container, insufficient nutrients in the water, and insufficient light. In fact, the most important thing for hydroponic Anthurium is water; the plant obtains most of its nutrients from the water, and another part through photosynthesis. Therefore, any one of the above points can cause Anthurium leaves to turn yellow.
Once the main causes of yellowing leaves in hydroponic Anthurium are understood, dealing with it becomes much easier.
1. Add water in time
Check the water level in the hydroponic container regularly. When the water level is below 1/3 of the roots, water needs to be replenished in time. As long as there is enough water in the hydroponic container, there is no need to spray water on the leaves every day. If the leaves are dirty, simply wipe them gently with a damp cloth.
2. Add nutrient solution at the right time
For hydroponic Anthurium, how often to change the water does not really matter; the key is to get the nutrient solution content in the water right. As time goes on, the water is absorbed by the plant, and the daily process of adding water has in fact already completed the step of changing the water.
Therefore, to ensure sufficient nutrients in the water, drip a few drops of nutrient solution into the container when adding water. As for exactly how many drops, this can be flexible according to how well the Anthurium is growing. At minimum, drip two drops each time, then observe the plant's growth; if it is normal, maintain the status quo, and if growth is poor, add an appropriate amount more.
3. Provide more sunlight
Compared with soil cultivation, hydroponic Anthurium needs more sunlight, and 2~3 hours of direct sunlight per day must be ensured (avoid direct sunlight at noon). Getting more sun in winter can prevent the branches and leaves from becoming weak and turning yellow.
Of course, to truly solve the problem of yellowing leaves in hydroponic Anthurium, the first thing is still to confirm the cause of the yellowing leaves, so that the right remedy can be applied; otherwise, it may backfire.