Fertilizing Your Anthurium Superbum Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Anthurium Superbum, also known as Bird’s Nest Anthurium or Queen Anthurium, is a beautiful plant with large, glossy leaves and colorful flowers. This tropical plant requires proper care to grow healthy and produce vibrant blooms. Fertilizing is an essential aspect of Anthurium Superbum care that can make a significant difference in its growth and flowering. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your Anthurium Superbum plant.

Dos of Fertilizing Your Anthurium Superbum Plant

Do Use a Balanced Fertilizer

Anthurium Superbum requires balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). A balanced fertilizer provides essential nutrients to the plant that it needs for growth and flowering. You can use a slow-release granular fertilizer or liquid fertilizer to feed your Anthurium Superbum plant.

Do Fertilize During Growing Season

Anthurium Superbum grows actively during spring and summer months. Therefore, it needs more nutrients during this time to support its growth and flowering. You should fertilize your Anthurium Superbum plant every two weeks during the growing season. However, you should reduce the frequency during fall and winter when the plant enters a dormant phase.

Do Dilute Fertilizer Properly

When using liquid fertilizer, you should dilute it properly before applying it to your Anthurium Superbum plant. Over-fertilizing can burn the roots of the plant and damage its growth. Therefore, follow the instructions on the label of the fertilizer to prepare the solution correctly.

Do Apply Fertilizer to Soil Surface

When fertilizing your Anthurium Superbum plant, you should apply the fertilizer to the soil surface rather than pouring it directly on the leaves or stem. Applying fertilizer directly on leaves or stem can cause burns or damage to your plant. Therefore, gently sprinkle the fertilizer on top of the soil and then water it thoroughly.

Don’ts of Fertilizing Your Anthurium Superbum Plant

Don’t Over-Fertilize

Over-fertilization is one of the common mistakes that people make while fertilizing their plants. Over-fertilization can cause salt buildup in the soil, which can lead to root damage and stunted growth in your Anthurium Superbum plant. Therefore, avoid over-fertilization by following the instructions on the label of the fertilizer.

Don’t Fertilize Newly Planted Anthurium Superbum

If you have recently planted your Anthurium Superbum, you should not fertilize it for at least six months. Newly planted plants need time to establish their roots in the soil before they can absorb nutrients from fertilizers.

Don’t Fertilize Dormant Plants

Anthurium Superbum enters a dormant phase during fall and winter months when it slows down its growth. During this time, you should not fertilize your plant as it may not absorb nutrients properly. Wait until spring when your plant starts growing actively again before fertilizing.

Don’t Use High Nitrogen Fertilizer

While nitrogen is an essential nutrient for plant growth, too much nitrogen can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Therefore, avoid using high nitrogen fertilizer on your Anthurium Superbum plant as it may hinder flowering.

FAQs

Q1: How often should I water my Anthurium Superbum?

Anthurium Superbum likes moist soil but not soggy soil. You should water your plant every 7-10 days or when the top inch of soil dries out. However, you should reduce watering during fall and winter when your plant enters dormancy.

Q2: Can I use organic fertilizer on my Anthurium Superbum plant?

Yes, you can use organic fertilizers like compost or worm castings on your Anthurium Superbum plant. Organic fertilizers provide slow-release nutrients to plants without harming them.

Q3: Can I use Epsom salt as a fertilizer for my Anthurium Superbum?

Epsom salt contains magnesium, which is an essential nutrient for plants’ growth. However, you should not use Epsom salt as a primary fertilizer for your Anthurium Superbum as it does not provide all essential nutrients that plants require. You can use Epsom salt occasionally in combination with balanced fertilizers.

In conclusion, fertilizing is an essential aspect of caring for your Anthurium Superbum plant. By following these dos and don’ts mentioned above, you can ensure that your plant receives adequate nutrition for healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Remember to always read the label of fertilizers before using them and adjust their application according to your plant’s growth stage.