The air plants belong to the genus Tillandsia. They are called air plants because they get most of their nutrients from the air. They do not need soil to grow and they need low maintenance. Their roots are necessary only to be anchored as they grow.
Air Plants Watering
Air plants are watered once a week by soaking or misting them. The air plants are better to be watered once a month by soaking them for 5 to 10 minutes and for the rest of the time should be watered by misting. After watering let them dry upside down to remove the excess moisture. Be sure that the air plant is completely dry before you place them back. The frequency of watering depends on the season and the environment. During winter watering once a week is enough. During summer air plants need more frequent watering. Curled leaves are an indication of dehydration.
Air Plants Lighting
Air plants love light. But direct light might burn them. They can live as well with artificial light.
Air Plants Airing
They must be placed in a well aired position to help excess moisture evaporate.
Air Plants Fertilization
The use of fertilizer helps the air plants to grow healthier. Spray once a month during watering with a fertilizer suitable for air plants or diluted indoor plants fertilizer (¼ of its concentration). Too much fertilization could damage the air plants.
Air Plants Blooming
The blooming differs for every species of air plants. Some air plants, such as Ionantha, bloom many times in a year but its flower lasts for a while. However, other species such as Xerografica, could take many years to reach at blooming age but its flower could last for several months.
Air Plants Reproduction
Air plants can be reproduced either with seeds or from other air plants. After blooming, air plants are reproduced and at the most of the species the new air plant appears at their base. We can leave it to grow with the mother plant. Else, when it will reach at the half of the mother plant you can remove it and let it grow on as a new air plant.
