Tropiflora's Air Plant (Tillandsia) Care Guide
The ultimate care guide on your newest obsession.
Tillandsia seleriana growing on a cliff. Photo by Dennis Cathcart
Congratulations on exploring a new plant! The world of bromeliaceae is vast and full of unique and different looking plants. Let's get you introduced to our most popular, and easiest varieties to grow, the Tillandsia.
Why are tillandsias called ‘Air Plants’?
Most tillandsias are epiphytes, meaning they don’t need soil to grow in, or even roots for that matter. They commonly grow on the limbs of trees or on rocky cliffs where their wiry roots are used as hold fasts, taking nothing from their hosts. Check out the picture above!
They have well-developed trichomes which allow them to absorb water and gather nutrients from their leaves, not their roots. Thus, the developing the common name, air plant.
Read more about trichomes and how they benefit the Air Plants here.
AIR PLANTS JUST NEED AIR, RIGHT?
There is a misconception that tillandsias only need air and can absorb their needed water through the moisture of the air. Although that is true in their natural habitat, it is difficult to mimic their natural habitat (cliff sides and tropical rainforests) in gardens and inside a home. At our nursery we treat them like any ordinary plant, giving them plenty of water, light, and air.
Do not plant them in soil, sand, or any substance that holds water. A shell, wire, or empty glass are just examples of how to display your tillandsia.
HOW SHOULD I WATER & HOW OFTEN?
This is one of the most asked questions with a variety of answers.
So, what should you do? Well, it depends on the growing condition and type of tillandsia. Read our more indepth watering advice here.
We water our plants with a sprinkler system for 20-30 minutes per greenhouse, 2-3 times a week. We have a lot of plants to cover and need every plant to be thoroughly watered. We would recommend watering 1-2 times a week for indoor plants, 2-3 times a week for outside plants (if no rain). In drier or warmer environments, you may need to water your air plants more frequently
How do I know my tillandsia is watered enough? You will see the trichomes, which are silvery, turn green or to the color of the plants natural blush. Pay attention to your air plant's leaves. When they start to curl or appear wrinkled, it's a sign that the plant needs water. Healthy air plants have plump, open leaves.
Now, if you are watering at home here are some methods and tips:
misting
Misting is a method a lot of people are advised to do. We do not suggest it as the best method, but you can mist your plant. It is not one-two sprays every couple of days. You would need to thoroughly mist until your finger is tired! Get every leaf dripping wet. The plants needs a good drink of water.
soaking
Soaking is a fool-proof way to get the job done. Great for a large quantity of plants. We recommend soaking your air plant in clean room temperature water for a maximum of 5 minutes. The trichomes can not absorb anymore moisture past ~5 minutes. Gently shake off excess water and return to its spot.
under a faucet/running water
Another easy method, if you have few plants, is to start a gentle stream of room temperature water. Place the plant under the stream and wave it back and forth until wet. Shake off the excess water and return to its spot.
WATER hosE
Our recommended method if you have a large number of plants outdoors or in an area you do not mind getting wet. Start a gentle water stream and aim the hose towards your plants. Generously water, let the water absorb, then water again just to make sure that your plant is watered enough.
Overwatering is a common issue with air plants. They should not sit in water for extended periods outside of their soaking routine, as this can lead to rot. Ensure they are in a well air circulation area so they can dry completely within 4 hours after watering.
how much Light does an air plant need?
Air plants generally thrive in bright, indirect light conditions. Here are some things to consider when finding a new home for your plant. There are a few varieties that can handle full sun.
WHAT IS indirect light?
Indirect light would be considered light that does not shine directly onto the surface of the plant. It is filtered through materials such as curtains, blinds, or trees. It may also be diffused by passing through a semi-transparent or translucent surface.
Tillandsias benefit from about 6-8 hours of light per day. This can vary depending on the specific species of air plant and its habitat. Providing a consistent light cycle helps maintain their growth. In lower light conditions, their growth may slow down, and they may become more prone to issues like rot if they stay too wet.
Direct sunlight, especially in hot climates, can quickly dehydrate and damage air plants. If you must place them in direct sunlight, morning sunlight or filtered sunlight is preferable over harsh midday sun.
how do i fertilize my air plant?
As for food, we recommend a monthly feeding of our soluble 20-10-20 fertilizer. Exact instructions are included on the container.
For a weekly fertilizing, add enough to slightly cause the water to turn a light blue.
For monthly fertilizing, add enough for a deeper blue color.
This can be put into a spray bottle, a bucket, or any container that holds water.
TEMPERATURE
Tillandsias generally prefer temperatures between 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C). They can tolerate brief periods of colder or warmer temperatures but should not be exposed to prolonged extremes. If experiencing extreme temperatures, please move your plants indoors or somewhere to protect them from damage.