Growth and nutrient uptake by potted foliage anthurium

Abstract

Nutrient uptake study is important to understand the plant nutritional requirements during its growth and to identify periods of increased nutrient demand and, thus to establish fertilization program. The objective was to determine the growth and the nutrient uptake by potted foliage anthurium. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse and the experimental design was completely randomized with ten times of plant sampling (0; 30; 60; 90; 120; 150; 180; 240; 300; and 360 days after transplanting) and five replicates. Anthurium maricense Nadruz & Mayo seeds were germinated in polyethylene trays filled with commercial substrate and the seedlings were transplanted into plastic pots (1.16 L capacity) when reached four leaves. Plant height, leaf number and foliar area were determined every sampling. Blades with petioles, stem, inflorescence and roots were collected and dry mass and nutrients accumulation were determined. Foliage anthurium plants showed initial development but from the 180 days of planting, which corresponds with the beginning of the inflorescence emission, there was a marked increase in height, leaf area, and dry mass and nutrient accumulation. Nutrient accumulation after 360 DAT followed the decreasing order: K > Ca > N > Mg > P > S > Mn
> Fe > Zn > B > Cu.