Ruqayyah Snyder
Air plants, or tillandsias, are a low-maintenance and hardy plant that can be grown by anyone. They are tropical American plants that usually grow on trees, with long, narrow leaves that absorb water and nutrients from the atmosphere. Air plants do not require soil and can be mounted on various surfaces such as wood, rocks, or ornaments using non-toxic glues, fishing line, or wires. They need plenty of fresh air, bright indirect sunlight or fluorescent lighting, and regular watering through misting, dunking, or soaking. With the right care, air plants can bloom brilliantly coloured flowers that last from several days to many months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of care | Air plants are easy to care for and will thrive despite neglect. |
| Watering | Dunk the plant in water for 10-20 minutes or mist spray every couple of weeks. Avoid distilled, softened, or water with high salt content. |
| Watering frequency | Water 2-3 times a week. Water more frequently in air-conditioned rooms. |
| Drying | Air plants should dry out completely between each watering. |
| Light | Keep in bright, indirect sunlight or fluorescent lighting. Avoid direct sunlight. |
| Temperature | Keep in warm conditions (50-90 degrees Fahrenheit). |
| Fertilizer | Fertilize monthly or bi-monthly, depending on the season. |
| Soil | Air plants don't grow in soil and can be mounted on various surfaces. |
| Air circulation | Good air circulation is important. |
| Containers | Avoid containers that hold water. |
| Mounting | Use non-toxic adhesives to mount the plants. |
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What You'll Learn
Air plants and their need for water
Air plants are incredibly low-maintenance and can go for long periods without water. However, they do have specific watering needs that should be met for them to thrive.
Firstly, it is important to note that air plants should never have water sitting at their base, as this will cause the plant to rot. Air plants should be allowed to dry out completely between each watering.
Air plants absorb water and nutrients through their leaves. The best way to water them is to soak them in rainwater, pond water, or regular tap water that has been left out overnight to allow chlorine to dissipate. Soak the plants for 20-30 minutes, then gently shake them to remove excess water. In between soaks, mist the plants with water, especially in dry conditions. In winter, mist once or twice a week.
If you are growing air plants indoors, you will need to submerge the plant in water every 7-10 days and mist them in between soaks. If growing outdoors, a hose can be used to dunk the plants in water.
Air plants grown in glass globes should be soaked for 20-30 minutes, then allowed to dry before being placed back in the globe. The larger the globe, the more care the plant will need.
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Air plants and sunlight
Air plants, or tillandsias, are native to hot and subtropical areas, including deserts. They are highly adaptable and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Air plants need some form of natural sunlight to survive and thrive. However, they are sensitive to direct sunlight, which can deplete moisture from the plant and cause it to burn and eventually die. Therefore, it is recommended to keep air plants in a well-lit spot, out of direct sunlight.
If you live in an area with strong sunlight, such as a southern state or a desert region, you should be cautious about exposing your air plants to direct sunlight. In these locations, air plants will dry out and sustain damage from direct sunlight more quickly, especially in areas lacking humidity.
When growing air plants indoors, place them near a window that receives indirect sunlight or bright fluorescent lighting. If the window receives direct sunlight, ensure the plant is shaded to prevent sun damage.
For outdoor air plants, choose a location that receives only filtered light, such as a shaded porch or patio that gets light primarily during the mornings and late afternoons. Avoid areas where the plant will be exposed to direct sunlight for more than an hour per day.
Some varieties of air plants, such as those with silver-leafed varieties, can tolerate more direct sunlight. These plants typically have thicker, hardier leaves. However, even these varieties may require more frequent watering during their exposure to direct sunlight.
Overall, air plants generally prefer indirect sunlight and will thrive when provided with soft, natural light without intense direct exposure.
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Air plants and fertiliser
Air plants are low-maintenance plants that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. They are native to tropical forests and desert-like environments and have evolved to derive their nutrients from the air and rainfall. They do not require soil and can be grown by simply hanging them from a supporting structure.
While fertilising air plants is not necessary, it does have its benefits. Fertilising your air plants will encourage blooming and reproduction, as well as promote healthy root growth. Air plants can be fertilised using a specific air plant fertiliser or a diluted houseplant fertiliser.
To fertilise your air plants, you can either use the misting or soaking method. For misting, use a spray bottle to thoroughly spray your plants with the fertiliser solution until they are completely wet. If you choose the soaking method, submerge your air plants in a bowl or container of the diluted fertiliser solution for 20-30 minutes.
As a general rule, fertilise your air plants once a month during the winter and every two weeks during spring and summer. After applying the fertiliser, shake off any excess moisture to avoid fertiliser burn. Then, leave your plants to dry off and absorb the nutrients for around four hours in a well-ventilated area.
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Air plants and temperature
Air plants, being tropical plants, are sensitive to cold temperatures. They need to be brought indoors when the temperature falls below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. In frost-free climates, they can live outside throughout the year. However, they should not be exposed to temperature extremes.
Air plants should be kept in a warm environment, with a good temperature range being 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit. They require good air circulation to absorb nutrients and avoid rot from too much moisture. They should be allowed to dry out completely between each watering, and water should never be left sitting at their base.
Air plants should be soaked in water for 10-30 minutes once a week to ten days. More frequent watering or a longer soak is recommended for drier, hotter climates. In winter, mist once or twice a week.
When indoors, air plants require bright, indirect sunlight or fluorescent lighting. Direct sunlight is fine, but more than a few hours of hot sun will deplete the plants of their moisture. They should be kept away from incandescent light bulbs, as these can get hot enough to burn the plants.
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Air plants and their mounting
Air plants, also known as tillandsias or bromeliads, are incredibly versatile when it comes to mounting and decorating. They can be mounted on a variety of surfaces, including wood, rocks, shells, wreaths, and even tree branches. Their roots primarily serve to anchor them securely to these surfaces, rather than for absorbing water or nutrients.
When mounting air plants, it is important to consider their natural growth habits. In the wild, air plants often anchor themselves to trees, rocks, or other structures, so providing a similar surface for them to attach to can be beneficial. Common mounting methods include using wire, fishing line, or glue.
If you wish to mount your air plants using wire, it is recommended to use aluminium or another non-toxic material as copper wire can be harmful and even kill the plant. Carefully loop the wire through the bottommost leaves and wrap it a few times around the base of the plant before attaching it to your desired surface. This method is versatile and allows you to mount air plants on wreaths, driftwood, or any other object you choose.
Fishing line is another effective way to mount air plants, especially on wreaths or driftwood. The clear line is woven through the leaves of the plant and secured with a knot, making it nearly invisible. Fishing line can also be used to create floating arrangements by hanging the plants from the ceiling or a shelf.
For a more permanent solution, you can use glue to mount your air plants. Apply a small amount of hot glue or silicone sealant to the mounting surface and carefully seat the plant into it. This method is often used when mounting air plants on wood, tree branches, or other similar surfaces. It is important to let the glue cool for about 10 seconds to avoid damaging the leaves. Additionally, make sure to mount plants with bulbous or inflated bases either horizontally or upside down to prevent water from collecting and causing rot.
Overall, air plants are adaptable and can be mounted on a variety of surfaces using a range of methods. Whether you choose to use wire, fishing line, or glue, always ensure that the mounting surface is secure and that the plant has firm contact with it. With proper care and mounting techniques, your air plants will thrive and add a touch of nature to your indoor or outdoor space.
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Frequently asked questions
Air plants, or tillandsias, are tropical American plants that usually grow on trees. They are part of the bromeliad family and can be identified by their long, narrow leaves and dazzling flowers.
Air plants absorb water through their leaves. Dunk the plant in a bowl of water for 10-20 minutes and leave to soak. After watering, place the plant in a bright, airy position to dry. Avoid placing the plant back in its terrarium until it is completely dry to prevent rot.
Water air plants 2-3 times a week. If kept indoors in an air-conditioned room, water more frequently. Mist the plant every couple of days to keep it hydrated, especially if it is in a spot with direct light.
Air plants are very versatile and can be kept indoors or outdoors. Keep them in a bright room, out of direct sunlight, and away from heaters and air conditioning units. They thrive in humid environments and can be hung from trees or other supporting structures.
