TILLANDSIA AIR PLANTS........SOME BASIC INFO
What kind of plant grows without soil and therefore may grow its entire life hanging
in midair, or on a rock, on a dead branch or on almost any surface, can survive a
month or more without water or light , has hundreds of diverse forms, blooms, can
be grown as a houseplant or outside, and is easy to care for? Answer: Tillandsia Air
Plants.
Tillandsia air plants grow naturally in South and Central America and southern parts
of the United States. They are in the Bromeliad family, and are sometimes referred
to as "air plants." Hundreds of different varieties grow on trees, rocks, cliffs, and
various types of cacti. Thin-leaf varieties grow in areas with more rain, and thick-leaf
varieties in areas more subject to drought. No soil is needed to grow these unique
plants. All water and nutrients are taken through the leaves. Their roots are used as
wire-like anchors.
Tillandsia air plants have a growth cycle starting with one plant growing to maturity
and then BLOOMING! One to two months after the bloom has finished, new plants
form around the base of the "mother" plant. They will then eventually mature and
complete their blooming cycle in one to several years, depending upon the variety
and growing conditions (very important!). Tillandsia air plants can be placed in
ANYTHING! (,Rocks, shells, pottery, driftwood, around water fountains, reptile tanks,
etc.) Tillandsia air plants are NOT toxic to animals, and they also travel and ship
well.
Light requirements: Bright, indirect light, fluorescent office lighting, or frost-protected
shaded patio. Generally, no direct sun is recommended. Some varieties can handle
some early morning sun - this will allow them to "blush" (change colors) before they
bloom!
Water: This is a very important aspect of succeeding with Tillandsia air plants!
Remove plants from their containers and spray HEAVILY, or rinse them under a
faucet or hose until they are dripping wet (underneath as well as on top).
Remember, they grow naturally where it rains! Frequency of watering (how many
times per week) will depend on:
* temperature variations (summer vs. winter)
* whether it is indoors or outdoors
* and the variety (thin or thick leaves)
Generally, with the spray or rinse method, you should water indoor tillandsia air
plants 2-3 times a week, and outdoor tillandsia air plants 4-5 times a week. In
warmer and drier conditions, an overnight soaking (12-14 hours) will rehydrate them
more efficiently than spraying or rinsing. If leaf edges begin to curl in, then it is best
to use the soaking method.
Fertilizer: Use Bromeliad fertilizer (17-8-22) twice a month. It is GREAT for blooming
and reproduction! Other water-soluble fertilizers can be used at 1/4 strength (Rapid
Grow, Miracle-Gro, etc.) if Bromeliad fertilizer is not available.
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
Plants For Sale | Assortments | Specials | Bud & Bloom List | Fertilizer, Glue, & Accessories | Air Plant Care | Featured Items | What Are Air Plants? | Tips | Mounting Instructions
| Site Map | Ordering & Shipping | Air Plant Art | Photo Gallery | Links To Bromeliad Sites | New Additions | Home | Customer Service|