Tillandsia

Care instructions for

Tillandsia

Tillandsia is a genus of around 650 species of evergreen, perennial flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae, native to the forests, mountains and deserts of the Neotropics, from northern Mexico and the southeastern United States to Mesoamerica and the Caribbean to central Argentina.

Light

• Provide bright, indirect light. A spot near an east or west-facing window is ideal, but avoid harsh, direct sunlight that can cause scorching.

Water

Method:
• The best method is soaking the plant for 30-60 minutes. Alternatively, you can mist them a few times a week, especially in humid climates, but soaking is more effective.
Water Type:
• Use rainwater, filtered water, or tap water that has had chlorine dissipated by sitting out overnight. Avoid distilled or softened water.
Frequency:
• Soak once a week. You may need to soak more frequently (2-3 times a week) in a very dry environment.

Soil & Fertilizer

• Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly to encourage blooming. Use a diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for bromeliads or a balanced fertilizer at half strength about once a month from spring to fall.

Humidity & Temperature

• Temperature: Air plants thrive in temperatures between 55−90∘F

Other Care Tips

• Air plants need good air circulation to prevent rot. After watering, make sure they can dry completely in a few hours. Avoid placing them in closed containers.
Grooming:
• Gently pull off any dry, dead leaves. If tips are dry, you can trim them with scissors.
Blooming:
• Air plants bloom only once in their lifetime. You can protect the flower during watering by covering it with your hand or holding the plant so the bloom stays dry.