All About Air Plants

  

Tillandsia, commonly known as air plants are among the most interesting plants you can grow in your indoor garden. These unique plants don’t require soil in order to grow so they can be displayed in many creative ways. Air plants are epiphytic, meaning they grow naturally on trees, rocks and often, other plants. They absorb water and any nutrients they need through specialized hairs (called trichomes) on their leaves. Once you understand their basic care, they are actually very easy to grow. Just like plants that grow in soil, air plants need light and water in order to flourish. When you get your air plants home, place them where they will receive bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun as air plants will sunburn. Given the proper light, some varieties of air plants will change color and “blush” red, or pink and then bloom. If possible, keep your plants away from drafts, heating and air conditioning vents. These conditions will cause your air plants to dry out faster. Because air plants take up moisture through the leaves, it’s important to keep them hydrated. 

While misting helps raise the humidity, it’s not enough to give air plants the water they need. Plan to soak each air plant for fifteen to twenty minutes once or twice a week; once a week if your plants are growing in a cool, humid spot; twice a week if they’re located in dry, warm spot. It’s also possible to soak your air plants for up to twelve hours every ten to twelve days. Whichever method you choose, use bottled water or tap water that has been left out overnight so that the chlorine evaporates. Do not use distilled water. 

Add a pinch of Epiphyte's Delight fertilizer to the water every other soaking to provide nutrients. When it comes to displaying your air plants, the possibilities are endless. Tillandsias can grow anywhere – on rocks, seashells, in ceramic pots, on ceramic figurines, attached to wood, cork or a stone, in glass holders, even attached to a magnet on your refrigerator. Tilly Tacker is a clear, waterproof air plant glue that will allow you to attach your air plants to virtually any surface you want. With a little care, your Tillandsia plants will thrive in your home for many years to come.