N, P, and K Rates and Leaf Tissue Standards for Optimum Anthurium andraeanum Flower Production

Abstract

The optimum fertilizer levels of N, P, and K for flower production of field-grown Anthurium andraeanum Andre in Hawaii were determined. Applications were at 0, 224, and 448 kg·ha-1·year-1 with all combinations of each nutrient level. Optimum flower production was achieved at 312N-448P-375K kg·ha-l·year-1. Increased N and K application resulted in a linear increase in flower size. Flower stem length also increased with increasing N, P, and K rates. Maximum flower yield occurred when leaf-tissue levels were 1.87% N, 0.17% P, and 2.07% K. Flower stem length and flower size were at their maximum with leaf N at 1.59% and 1.67% and K at 2.20% and 1.86%, respectively. No relationship was observed between leaf percent P, flower size, or stem length. A range of leaf-tissue levels associated with optimum anthurium flower production was determined for Ca, Mg, B, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mo).