Tropiflora’s Full Sun Bromeliad Guide
Our tips on growing Full Sun Bromeliads in Southwest Florida
Despite the fact that certain bromeliads are labeled as ‘full sun tolerant’, in our experience most of them would prefer a break from the sun throughout the day.
Here are some tips on keeping your bromeliads looking great all year long.
Acclimation
Planting bromeliads in a new sun exposure at certain times of the year is essential to enhancing the sun tolerance of the bromeliads.
We recommend planting October-April.
The best looking bromeliads would ideally have a temperature dip at night to 10-15 degrees cooler than mid-day conditions.
During the hottest times of the year, some bromeliads will bleach in color and/or burn.
WHERE TO PLANT
Planting in a well drained medium is ideal. Tropiflora’s bromeliad mix is an excellent choice.
Be mindful when planting the full sun bromeliads in rock beds, shell beds, or near asphalt because it can hold a lot of radiant heat.
FERTILIZATION
We use Osmocote 18-5-12. It is a controlled release fertilizer that has 5 to 6 months of constant feed at an average temperature of 70° (F). In warmer conditions the time release is much faster shortening the life span to 3 to 4 months. To use, sprinkle a few granules at the base of the plant (NOT IN THE PLANT) and leave it alone. You can mix it in the soil if freshly planting in a new location.
New growth from fertilization is more susceptible to heat and cold damage.
We recommend fertilizing anytime between March-September.
SALT TOLERANCE
In our experience, sea salt water will most likely kill the entire plant.
In some customer experiences, when salt water enters the cup of the plant, washing it out thoroughly with clean water may increase the chances of the plant's survival.
COLD WEATHER
In our area we encounter 2-3 days out of the year where there is frost. We take it very seriously because the bromeliads are vulnerable to cold weather.
For landscapes, we recommend using frost cloth or any breathable material that prevents the frost from developing on the leaves.
Plants we would recommend for sun
Out of stock? Contact us here.
Please keep in mind that different zones in Florida can handle different sun tolerances. Our advice is based off our experiences in our growing environment, which is zone 10A.
Learn more bromeliad basics in our Tropiflora General Bromeliad Care