Are you interested in a unique and low-maintenance houseplant? Let me introduce you to air plants, part of the Tillandsia genus in the Bromeliad family. I first discovered Tillandsia in 2007 during a visit to the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival at Walt Disney World in Florida. I was captivated by the sight of whimsical air plants adorning the larger-than-life Disney character topiaries, along with flowers, succulents, ivy, and moss.
These fascinating plants, related to pineapples, are native to tropical and subtropical regions of North and South America. They don’t grow in soil but attach themselves to trees, rocks, and buildings without causing harm. Air plants rely on specialized cells called trichomes in their leaves to absorb moisture and nutrients.
For optimal growth, air plants need bright, indirect light near an east- or west-facing window, avoiding direct sunlight that can damage their leaves. Watering involves soaking them in room-temperature water for 30-60 minutes once a week, or more frequently in dry environments. After soaking, ensure excess water is removed by gently shaking the plants and allowing them to dry upside-down on a towel to prevent rot.
Remember to let tap water sit for chlorine dissipation before watering, as air plants are sensitive to chemicals. Monthly feeding with a diluted houseplant, bromeliad, or orchid fertilizer in the soaking water helps provide essential nutrients for their growth.
Air plants bloom once, with their flowers signaling the end of their lifecycle. Offshoots, known as “pups,” emerge after flowering and can be separated to grow new plants. With over 500 species to choose from, including well-known varieties like Spanish moss and unique specimens like the Xerographic air plant, there’s a diverse selection available.
Display your air plants creatively, such as in open-topped glass globes, terrariums, seashells, or rocks. You can even hang them in a suspended garden or attach them to driftwood for a stunning visual effect. Enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of these captivating air plants in your home.
Embrace the beauty of nature by incorporating plants into your living space in creative ways. Whether you choose to create a more nature-inspired display outdoors or cultivate greenery within hanging frames indoors, the possibilities are endless. By understanding and meeting the needs of your plants, you can unleash your creativity and bring your vision to life.
Jessica Damiano, a dedicated writer, shares her expertise in gardening through weekly columns for the Associated Press (AP) and her award-winning publication, the Weekly Dirt Newsletter. For a steady stream of gardening tips and advice, readers can subscribe to receive weekly updates.
To explore more gardening stories from the AP, visit the gardening section at https://apnews.com/hub/gardening.
