Prediction of the Number of Cut Flowers in Anthurium andraeanum L. Using a Simulation Model

Abstract

The flower of Anthurium andraeanum L. consists of a modified leaf (spathe) that subtends a cylindrical inflorescence (spadix). One flower emerges from each leaf axil. The sequence of leaf, flower, and new leaf is maintained throughout the plant’s lifecycle. In the present study, the leaf-emergence interval (LEI) and number of days from the emergence of the subtending leaf to flower harvesting (DFH), which are important factors for determining flower productivity, were monitored for 2 years in ‘Tropical’ (A. andraeanum). Seasonal fluctuation was observed in both LEI and DFH. In addition, strong negative correlations between temperature and LEI and temperature and DFH was detected. Mathematical models explaining the fluctuation of LEI and DFH were developed using the developmental index (DVI) and developmental rate (DVR). LEI and DFH were explained with high-level accuracy by the daily average temperature alone. In addition, DVR and temperature association in both models indicated an optimal growth temperature for Anthurium above 25°C. A combined model of LEI and DFH will facilitate the prediction of the number of cut flowers that could be harvested in a given period, under changing temperature conditions. This would contribute to efficient temperature control in greenhouses for the commercial production of cut Anthurium flowers.