Air Plant Care
Air Plants, formally known as Tillandsia, are a great plant for first-time plant owners and experienced green thumbs alike. Air Plants thrive on water, nutrients, and light. In nature, they grow on trees, or other hosts, making them Epiphytes. However, they are not parasitic and do not take any nutrients from their hosts. Air plants pull nutrients and moisture from the air using small vessels on their leaves called trichomes.
When cared for properly, your Tillandsia can live for years and may even provide baby plants which are called "pups"!
Bringing your new plant home:
When your air plant arrives at its new home, you will want to soak it for 20-30 minutes. Let it dry out completely and then you can put it out on display!
Light:
Air plants love light and thrive best living in indirect sunlight. This could be within 3-5 feet of a window, or near an artificial light source. You should be careful to make sure that your plant does not receive too much bright sun as it may be harmful. If your plant is receiving too much sun, it will dry out too quickly.
Water:
It is best to water your plant once a week. Air plants love moisture! It is great to soak them for 10-20 minutes. You can place them in a bowl, container, or sink that is filled with water. Once they have soaked for a while, take them out of the water, shake off additional moisture, and let them dry. Excess sitting water can damage your plant.
If you live in an extra dry region, you might want to occasionally mist your plant with water in between soakings.
Air:
The plants need good air circulation to live a long life. It is important to let your plants completely dry before placing them in a container, and it is best to avoid displaying them in enclosed containers. If your plant is close to an AC or heat vent, you may need to mist it more often.
Temperature:
Air plants love to live within a range of 50-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overall, air plants are easy to care for and can provide so much joy! The best rule for air plant care is to pay attention to it! It will let you know when it starts to need water, or if it is unhappy in its environment.