Air Plant Care Guide
Air plants (Tillandsia) are all the rage! Gardeners of all experience levels are drawn to their unique ability to grow without soil! Air plants are tropical and will not survive freezing temperatures, so they are grown as houseplants in much of the United States. Air plants are epiphytes, meaning that they grow on other larger plants rather than in the ground. For example, they use their roots to anchor to the crooks and crevices of trees and shrubs without harming them. Air plants absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through their leaves. This unique quality makes them easy to grow and adaptable to many locations throughout the home and office. For instance, they can be grown in terrariums, shells, grapevine wreaths and wire frames (however, don’t use copper as air plants find it toxic). Air plants can also be attached to wine corks with a magnet to display on a filing cabinet or refrigerator. This flexibility makes them a stylish way to add plants and greenery to most any room.
Caring for Air Plants
It is estimated that there are 450 varieties of air plants. So there is a wide array of leaf shapes and styles to collect. Regardless of the variety, their care is very similar. Air plants are very forgiving of neglect, which has added to their popularity. Read more for care tips that will keep your air plants healthy and vibrant for years to come.