Anthuriums are among the epiphytic arum plants. The characteristic growth of their aerial roots raises questions about substrate quality, pruning and care. Read the best tips for how to properly handle the aerial roots of a flamingo flower here.
How do you properly care for anthurium aerial roots?
High humidity is important for the care of anthurium aerial roots. Spray the aerial roots regularly with lime-free water and ensure a humid location. Avoid cutting off he althy aerial roots as they contribute to the supply of nutrients.
Is special substrate required for anthurium aerial roots?
The perfect substrate for anthuriums is a special,airy-permeable soil mixture, so that the numerous aerial roots do not suffocate. A coarse-grained consistency also prevents waterlogging because excess irrigation water can drain away quickly. Recommended special anthurium substrates are orchid soil or a mix of peat-free houseplant soil, coconut soil and lava granules in equal parts.
Can I cut off the aerial roots of an anthurium?
You can only cut offdead aerial roots on an anthurium. Lifeless root strands are discolored brown, dried out or rotten and softened. Please do not cut off green and cream-colored, he althy Anthurium aerial roots, as they make an important contribution to supplying leaves, bracts and flower spadix.
Repotting anthurium with extra long aerial roots
Anthuriums are semi-epiphytes (hemiepiphytes), whose aerial roots also thrive in soil. Instead of cutting off he althy, overly long root strands, you can repot the flamingo flower in a larger pot that will accommodate all the roots.
How do I properly care for the aerial roots of an anthurium?
Important for the proper care of the aerial roots of an anthurium ishigh humidity. In this regard, all tropical houseplants with aerial roots, such as orchids or philodendrons, agree. How to do it right:
- Place the flamingo flower in a bright, humid location, such as the bathroom.
- Spray aerial roots regularly with lime-free water.
- Set up humidifier.
Tip
Anthurium also thrives in water
Thanks to their numerous aerial roots, anthuriums thrive spectacularly in water-filled glass. Simply unpot an anthurium, rinse off all the soil and place the substrate-free root ball in a bulbous glass vase. Now fill in lime-free water until all roots are covered. For a hydroponic houseplant, care is limited to watering, monthly feeding with liquid fertilizer and changing the water every two weeks.
