Advances in fertilization of Anthurium hybrid in Guadeloupe (FWI)

Ornamental cultures play an important role in the diversification of agriculture in the humid tropics. Anthurium andreanum is the main tropical cut flower species both in term of cultivated surface and commercial trade. The aim of this work was, firstly, to study the mineral requirements of the plant and, secondly, to propose the most suitable substrate/ fertigation combination to the sheltered Anthurium growers. The proposed system was chosen to reduce inputs (local availability of the substrate) and to avoid fertilizer wasting and pollution. A previous trial, intended to test some local materials as growing media, took place from 1990 to 1993. Its results brought us to use a mixed substrate made of 1/3 composted and disinfected wood chips and 2/3 pouzzolane 5 - 15 mm (volcanic gravel). Physical and chemical analyses of this substrate has been achieved. Four fertigation solutions with increasing mineral nitrogen rates (3-6-9-12 meg/l) have been applied to plants cultivated in containers with the selected substrate. The mineral composition of nutrient and drainage solutions was determined. Yield and flower quality parameters were measured. Plant growth and flowering rate were observed for one year. A few significant differences appeared between the treatments, hence it can be concluded that the lowest nutrition level is sufficient to allow a good growth and flowering rate. Further work is being carried out now to better understand the plant biology and to specify its mineral requirements by establishing a complete balance of supplies and exportations.