Air Plant Care Guide
Background
Air plants, botanically known as Tillandsias, are native to North, Central, and South America. The name comes from their ability to solely rely on air without the need of soil. In the wild, you may find air plants within jungles, mountain tops, and deserts. Air plants get their nutrients through humidity and dirt particles in the air. Their roots need an area to latch onto in order to effectively grow. They bloom beautiful flowers varying in color from pink, purple, red, and yellow. Below is a cheat sheet on everything you need to know about taking care of an air plant.
Sunlight
Depending on the species of Tillandsia, light requirements may differ, but most air plants thrive in bright indirect light. Air plants can be burnt by direct light, while low light is also detrimental to their health in the long term. Place your air plant in an area indoors or outdoors in a bright location.
Basic Plant Characteristics
-
Tillandsia
-
Bromeliaceae
-
Item description
-
Bright, indirect
-
No Soil Required
-
Non-Toxic
-
Zones 10-12 (USDA)
Humidity
Despite their name, air plants require water to survive. Generally, air plants require a high level of humidity, around 65%, in their natural habitats. Having a high level of humidity prevents them from drying out in direct sunlight. Investing in a humidifier might be a good idea. Consistently mist your air plants to ensure that their humidity needs are being cared for.
Temperature
Most air plants prefer temperatures in the range of 50-90 degrees since they are tropical plants. Make sure that you provide the plants with enough light and water if you bring them inside. The use of heaters in the cooler months causes the air to be less humid.
Watering
Follow the following steps to have the best success with watering your air plants.
Step One: Soak your air plants in water by filling a sink or tub with lukewarm water. This should be done once every 1 to 2 weeks depending on the time of year.
Step Two: Place them upside down on a towel to dry until completely dry, which usually takes 1-2 hours.
Step Three: Ensure that the air plants have completely dried before putting them back in their home. Leaving them wet in the wrong location can lead to fungal infections, rot, and mold.
Step Four: Because of the air plants humidity needs, make sure to use a mister or humidifier in between waterings.
Be mindful that during the winter, they will need soakings less frequently and during warm and sunny times, they will need more frequent soakings.
Best Soil for Air Plants
The cool thing about air plants, is that they do not require any soil!
Susceptible Pests & Diseases
There are many diseases and pests that can affect air plants, including:
Diseases:
Pests:
Types of Air Plants
There are about 450 different types of Tillandsia genus within the Tilandsiaceae family. The most popular variation of air plant is the Tillandsia xerographica. The rarest being the Tillandsia ionantha druid, with its beautiful orangy-pink spikes and purple flowers. Below lists four of the most popular air plants.
Tillandsia Cyanea
Known for its beautiful hot pink flowers and its spiky air plant leaves. This plant would be a great addition to any green space.
Tillandsia Bulbosa
Some say this variation of air plant reminds them of a sea creature flowing through the water. With its unique wavy spiky stems
Tillandisa Xerographica
One of the most common variations of air plants. It is recognized by its large curly leaves. You can find the xerographica in almost any greenery.
Tillandsia Usneoides
This variation is known for its hair looking leaves. It has the ability to flow up to 20 feet. Often grows upon large trees in sub-tropical climates.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Air plants are considered safe for children and pets. Please note that the air plant can pose as a choking hazard, be sure to always supervise your loved ones and furry friends around any plants in the house.
-
Air plants have the ability to survive without soil because they absorb all of their water and nutrients through the scales on their leaves. In nature they grow around trees.
-
There are many different ways that you can hang or place your favorite air plants.
You can put your air plants in a platter and place them in the center of your table.
Using a wire plant hanger
Use bendable wire to wrap around your air plants stem and hang anywhere in your home with a window.
Purchase a air plant cradle. This works for all shapes and sizes of air plants.
Use a macrame wall hanger designed for air plants.
There are many other different ways to hang your air plants. From DIY projects to air plant cradles, anything will work. A lot of these resources can be found all over the internet.