How To Grow Air Plants?
Low-maintenance air plants thrive without soil
Air plants, also known as Tillandsias, are a fascinating type of plant that require minimal care and can thrive without soil. To successfully grow air plants, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, ensure proper lighting. These plants thrive in bright but indirect sunlight, so placing them near a window or under fluorescent lights is ideal. It is important to avoid placing them in direct sunlight as this can scorch their leaves.
Air plants thrive with ample airflow
Next, provide ample air circulation. As their name suggests, air plants need good air flow to survive. They obtain nutrients and moisture through their leaves, so it is crucial to create an environment with sufficient airflow. This can be achieved by placing your air plants in open containers, hanging them from the ceiling, or using a fan to keep the air moving.
Delicate care for air plants explained
Watering air plants is relatively simple, but it requires a delicate balance. While they don’t require soil, these plants need to be misted or submerged in water regularly to survive. A recommended method is to mist them with water once or twice a week, making sure to thoroughly wet each leaf. Alternatively, you can soak them in a bowl of water for about 20 minutes every one to two weeks. Afterward, shake off any excess water to prevent rot.
Boost air plant growth with fertilization
Lastly, air plants also benefit from occasional fertilization. Although they can survive without it, fertilizing them once a month can promote healthier growth. Choose a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer and dilute it to about one-quarter or one-half the recommended strength of the instructions. Apply the fertilizer by misting it onto the air plants’ leaves or by soaking the plants in a diluted fertilizer solution for a short time.