The balls needed to be large, to be seen hanging in a huge, old Camphor Tree. They had to be interesting and decorative and be able to withstand outdoor conditions for months or maybe even permanently. Further, they needed some full sun bromeliad displays in bright red colors for elaborate, historical concrete planters. Not easy.

We talked over the logistics with the crew and each was given a task. Linda and I secured the materials for the balls. There were three of a dense Styrofoam material, the largest, 30 inches. A fourth was a welded wire form with vines. Each was to be covered with plants. Veronica, our head Tillandsia grower, calculated what plants to use for the exposure. She had to have enough of each available and then find a way to attach them permanently. Several methods were tested, plants gathered, and materials were assembled.

Each individual plant had to be attached with wire and adhesive to be weatherproof and promote rooting. She used the help of four girls on her team working for almost a week to complete the project. One ball was tackled by Anthony. That one has 250 Tillandsia capitata ‘Red’. A smaller ball has 200 Tillandsia Ionantha covering the surface. The medium sized ball has 40 Tillandsia xerographica. The largest uses several different Tillandsias including Tillandsia ‘Sparkler’,  Til. Ixioides, & Til. palaecae among others. That ball has over 350 Tillandsias!