Tillandsia
Tillandsia spp.
Tillandsias, or air plants, grow without soil, taking water and nutrients through tiny scales on their leaves. They can be displayed on wood, shells, wire or in open glass bowls.
Photo: Hans Hillewaert · CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light
Watering
Moderate
Soak in water for 20–30 minutes once a week, then shake off and dry upside down within four hours to prevent rot.
Soil
No soil needed.
Temperature and humidity
10–32 °C · Moderate humidity
Feeding
Add a very diluted bromeliad or orchid fertilizer to the soaking water once a month.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by offsets
Pull off dry lower leaves.
Air plants are not toxic to people, cats or dogs.
Top Cultivation Tips
Never put them in a closed container while wet.
Use rainwater or filtered water.
Leaves curling inward mean it needs more water.
Bathrooms with a bright window suit them well.
