Method for Preparing the Potting Substrate for Potted Anthurium

  For home potted anthurium, a composite substrate can be made by mixing peat soil, perlite and bone meal evenly, and coarse sand should be placed at the bottom of the pot to help drainage. Before potting the anthurium, the soil substrate must be sterilized. Place the anthurium plant upright in the center of the pot, fill with potting soil up to the pot surface, and be careful to expose the growing point in the center of the plant and the small leaves at the base. After planting, spray with a microbial agent promptly to prevent Phytophthora and Pythium diseases.

  Because anthurium grows as an epiphyte or semi-epiphyte under natural conditions, its aerial roots can absorb moisture from the humid air. Therefore, the growing substrate must be similar to the substrate it naturally attaches to, that is, it must have good water retention, drainage and air permeability, otherwise root rot is likely to occur. The requirements of anthurium for the growing substrate are as follows:

  1. Good water retention.

  2. Can promptly drain excess water.

  3. Not prone to rotting.

  4. Can remain loose and airy for a long time.

  5. Does not contain or release toxic substances.

  The commonly used substrate is imported peat. In addition to peat, more and more growers are now beginning to use coconut coir. Coconut coir that has passed through a mesh sieve can be used to replace peat; it has good capillary action and a relatively high air content. Using 40% coconut coir in cultivation will not cause any problems.