1. Introduction
Anthurium is a tropical ornamental plant valued for its bright, long-lasting spathes and glossy foliage. Due to its sensitivity to climate, greenhouse cultivation offers ideal controlled conditions to ensure healthy growth and high-quality flowers.
2. Climate and Site Requirements
- Temperature: 25°C to 30°C (day), not below 15°C (night)
- Humidity: 80–90% relative humidity
- Light: Prefers diffused light, direct sun should be avoided
- Altitude: 1000–2000 meters above sea level is ideal
3. Suitable Greenhouse Structure
- Type: Naturally ventilated or climate-controlled greenhouse
- Orientation: North–south for even light distribution
- Covering Material: UV-stabilized polyethylene film or 50–75% shade nets
4. Growing Media and Bed Preparation
- Media: Coconut husk, charcoal, brick pieces, perlite, compost
- pH Range: 5.5 to 6.5
- Sterilization: Mandatory to avoid pathogens and pests
5. Propagation
- Methods: Suckers and tissue culture plantlets
- Spacing: 30 × 30 cm or 40 × 40 cm
- Planting Time: Preferably monsoon or early winter
6. Irrigation and Humidity Management
- System: Drip or mist irrigation
- Humidity: Maintain 80–90% using foggers
- Drainage: Essential to prevent root rot
7. Fertigation
- Balanced NPK through drip irrigation
- Supplement with micronutrients like Mg, Ca, B, Fe
- Slow-release fertilizers can also be used
8. Cultural Practices
- Mulching with coconut husk or plastic
- Staking or wire frame support for flower stalks
- Regular removal of old leaves and flowers
- Shading during peak sunlight hours
9. Pest and Disease Management
- Pests: Aphids, thrips, mealybugs, slugs
- Diseases: Root rot, bacterial blight, leaf spots
- Control: Neem oil, systemic pesticides, clean tools
10. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
- When: Spathes fully opened and colored
- How: Cut with sterilized knives, place in clean water
- Grading: Based on stalk length and spathe size
- Packing: Plastic sleeves and ventilated cartons
11. Additional Activities to Improve Quality
- CO₂ enrichment to enhance photosynthesis
- Use of GA3 (Gibberellic acid) for stalk elongation
- LED grow lights to improve spathe coloration
- Regular foliar feeding for better growth
- Automated humidity and temperature control
- Sanitization of tools and growing areas
- Hygienic flooring with proper drainage
12. Yield and Economics
- First harvest: 6–8 months after planting
- Yield: 100–150 flowers/m²/year
- Shelf life: 2–3 weeks
- Profit: High due to export demand and decorative uses
