In this article, I will explain the vase life of Anthurium cultivars. Anthurium plants such as Anthurium andraeanum make great-cut flowers.
These produce stunning-looking blooms consisting of a brightly colored spathe and spadix. The natural vase life of cut Anthuriums is 10-12 days.
The hormone Ethylene is responsible for the opening, and wilting of flowers, says Plantarchives. Wilting is often described as spadix necrosis. This is the fancy botany term for it.
Anthurium plants and blooms are number 9 in the Global Flower trade, just behind the Orchid flower, according to Researchgate.
But how to best care for anthurium cut flowers?
The tips in this article will guarantee a long vase life.
Table of Contents
Anthurium Vase Life
To extend the vase life of Anthurium flowers, ensure high light intensity, add additives such as sucrose and antiseptics, and keep a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Studies have found that more light increases vase life for some cultivars. Select flowers that contain more green or white. Flowers that have more green contain more chlorophyll and last longer.
Tips to increase the Vase Life of Anthurium Cut Flowers
Anthurium blooms can last up to 30 days by following these tips:
1. Genes
The cultivar and the genetic constitution of the cut flower are essential. Some species will last longer than others. The type of flowers determines the vase’s life to a high degree. Different Anthurium varieties have different vase lives.
Tip
Aim for Anthuriums such as the Flamingo flower.
2. Handling
Once the flowers are cut from the plant, water intake is cut off. Water plays a vital role in the health of flowers. The handling of flowers postharvest has a significant impact.
The water relations after cutting the bloom off the mother plant impact senescence. Plant roots no longer intake water. it is not channeled through the stems s to the flowers anymore.
Senescence is the botanical term for deterioration. It is used to describe flower degradation. Also, the temperature is essential.
The holding solution plays an important role. Water is frequently used. Additives such as germicides and sugars are added. The germicides prevent bacteria.
Tip
Use water in addition to water preservatives to prolong the shelf-life of ornamental flowers. Water is often enriched with sugars such as sucrose as well as biocides. Biocides will prevent the growth of microorganisms.
This is done by acidifying the water. Sugar, on the other hand, is used as food for the flower. Ginger and other substances that prevent microbial growth increase vase life. Prevent chilling injury caused by low temperatures.
Avoid high temperatures, as this increases the metabolism. This is why cut flowers are best kept in cool temperatures. Keep the temperature between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24°C) at home and exchange the water frequently.
3. Light Intensity
According to a study by the University of the West Indies, the ideal light intensity for Anthurium plants is 15-20k Lux or 285-350 umol. pH Levels
Higher pH levels in the water are also associated with a longer life of anthurium-cut flowers.
The longer the light intensity, the longer the flowers last. Fluorescent light, as well as LED lights, can be used to prolong the maximum vase life. The main reason is better water intake with high light quality and quantity. This does not hold for the vase life of all cultivars. Flowers with short vase lives were not impacted.
Tip
But flowers close to windows or provide artificial lighting. This increases vase life considerably.
4. Flower Color – Green and White Flowers last longer
The pigmentation of the spathe is a defining factor. Cultivars with a spathe that contains more chlorophyll last longer. The greener the spathe, the more chlorophyll it contains.
Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis, as we all know. In addition, the abaxial stomata density correlates with vase life in anthurium. The abaxial side is the underside of the leaf. Stomata are the leaf pores. A lower density also correlates with a longer vase life of cut flowers.
The chlorophyll concentration in flowers can be tested by how much light they reflect. The less light that is reflected, the more chlorophyll.
Tip
Buy flower bouquets containing green and white flowers. They will last longer.
Cut Flowers of Anthurium
The anthurium genus is popular as cut flowers. They flower throughout the year and produce multiple flowers. Anthuriums are the longest-blooming plants on earth. These tropical flowers also have great postharvest qualities.
Anthurium andraeanum Cut Flower
Anthuriums are herbaceous perennials. They are mainly cultivated for ornamental use. Flowers, as well as foliage, are often stunning.
Anthurium andraeanum is also known as the Flamingo flower and produces beautiful inflorescence.
The inflorescence in Anthurium plants consists of a spathe and spadix. The spathe is a modified leaf. The Flamingo lily is available in red, pink, white, and yellow.
Factors Reducing Postharvest Vase Life of Anthurium
- Insufficient nutrient intake
- Water stress
- Warm temperatures
- Bacterial and fungal infections
Best Preservatives so Flowers will Last
Some of the best know preservatives for flowers for glossiness and freshness:
- Sucrose
- Ginger extract (antibacterial properties)
- Aluminum sulfate
Read next about the best tips for growing Anthurium plants.
Daniel has been a plant enthusiast for over 20 years. He owns hundreds of houseplants and prepares for the chili growing seasons yearly with great anticipation. His favorite plants are plant species in the Araceae family, such as Monstera, Philodendron, and Anthurium. He also loves gardening and is growing hot peppers, tomatoes, and many more vegetables.