Write commercial cultivation practices of Anthurium with reference to microclimate, propagation and planting, harvesting and yield of Anthurium cutflowers.

Microclimate Requirements

Anthurium thrives in warm, humid environments. Successful commercial cultivation demands meticulous microclimate management:

• Temperature: 18-27°C is ideal. Fluctuations can cause flower drop and bract discoloration. Greenhouses with temperature control systems are crucial.
• Humidity: 80-90% relative humidity is essential. This is achieved through fogging systems, misting, and maintaining a high plant density.
• Light: Requires diffused sunlight, approximately 20-30% shade. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves and bracts. Shade nets are commonly used.
• Air Circulation: Adequate ventilation is vital to prevent fungal diseases like Anthracnose.

Propagation and Planting

Anthurium propagation is primarily vegetative:

• Tip/Node Cuttings: The most common method. Cuttings are treated with rooting hormones (e.g., IBA) and placed in a sterile rooting medium (sphagnum moss or perlite).
• Tissue Culture: Offers a faster and disease-free propagation method, suitable for large-scale commercial nurseries.
• Planting: Well-drained, aerated potting mix is crucial. pH should be between 6.0 and 6.5. Spacing in greenhouses depends on the variety, but generally 30-45 cm between plants and 60-90 cm between rows is recommended.

Harvesting and Yield of Anthurium Cutflowers

Harvesting is critical for maximizing vase life and quality:

• Harvest Stage: Flowers are harvested when the spathe is fully colored but before the male flower releases pollen. This typically occurs 60-80 days after planting.
• Harvesting Technique: Cut the flower stalk with a sharp, sterilized knife, leaving sufficient leaves on the plant.
• Post-Harvest Handling: Immediate pre-cooling (at 2-4°C) is essential to slow down metabolism and prevent ethylene damage. Flowers are treated with STS (Silver Thiosulfate) to prevent premature flower opening.
• Yield: A well-managed Anthurium plantation can yield 100-150 cut flowers per plant per year. The number varies based on variety, climate, and management practices.

Parameter	Requirement
Temperature	18-27°C
Humidity	80-90% RH
Light	Diffused, 20-30% shade
pH of Soil	6.0-6.5

Challenges and Future Trends

Challenges in Anthurium cultivation include:

• Disease Management: Anthracnose and other fungal diseases are a major concern. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices are essential.
• High Input Costs: Greenhouse construction, climate control systems, and fertilizers contribute to high production costs.
• Market Volatility: Fluctuations in export markets can impact profitability.

Future trends include developing disease-resistant varieties, exploring hydroponic cultivation, and improving post-harvest handling techniques to extend vase life.