Air Plant Care Guide
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are an interesting and unique type of plant that requires very little in the way of maintenance and care. Air plants are epiphytic, meaning they do not require soil to thrive; instead they absorb water and nutrients directly from the air. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes with colors ranging from green to pink or purple. Because air plants have adapted to survive primarily on air particles for their growth, they can be grown indoors without any natural sunlight or outdoors in direct sun for short periods of time. The benefits of caring for an air plant include low-maintenance care requirements, a wide variety of available species to choose from, and improved indoor decor options due to their lack of dirtiness compared to other houseplants. With proper knowledge about specific light needs, water requirements, fertilization schedules and general maintenance tips you will have success with your air plant!
4 Tips on Air Plant Care (especially #1)
Air plants are unique in their ability to thrive without soil, which means they have quite specific lighting needs that must be met for them to survive and flourish. When choosing the right lighting for an air plant it is important to consider the type of light, intensity, duration and location of the light source.
Air Plant Soil (or not?)
Air plants do not require soil to survive and thrive as they absorb water and nutrients directly from the air. This means that any type of soil used must be able to provide adequate drainage while still retaining some moisture. Traditionally, moss or bark-based potting mixes are recommended for air plant cultivation as these materials help create an environment where humidity is easily maintained without becoming soggy and over-saturated with water.
Air Plant Lighting
The type of light provided should be suitable for growing houseplants; this typically includes full-spectrum fluorescent bulbs or LED grow lights. Natural sunlight can also be used but should only be done if you are willing to move your air plant periodically as direct sun exposure can cause burns on the foliage over time. Fluorescent bulbs will provide a more consistent level of light while LED grow lights emit higher levels of energy that can help promote growth in certain species.
Watering Air Plants
Generally, air plants should be watered once a week (or more often if placed in particularly dry environments) by either misting the leaves directly or submerging them in water for 5-10 minutes before allowing them to dry out completely.
Fertilize Air Plants
When it comes to selecting the right type of fertilizer look for one that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus as this will provide essential trace elements required by air plants without overfeeding them which can cause burning on their foliage. If applying liquid fertilizer always dilute it according to instructions included with the product and avoid getting any onto their foliage; instead opt for pouring some into standing water used during watering or soaking sessions beforehand so it has time to properly dissolve before being absorbed through their roots!
Air Plant Maintenance
When transplanting air plants, it’s important to take into consideration the pot size and soil type that is best suited for a particular species. Generally, plastic or glazed pots are recommended as they can provide adequate drainage while still allowing roots to spread out comfortably. As for soil types, moss-based mixes are ideal due to their ability to retain moisture without becoming soggy over time; however if you choose to make your own mixture at home make sure it has enough aeration along with materials such as perlite or vermiculite which will help keep the soil from compacting too much.
Pruning air plants is another essential part of maintenance in order to promote healthy growth and longevity of these unique epiphytes. Pruning should be done every 2-3 months depending on the species using sharp scissors or shears when necessary; aim for removing any dead leaves or stems that have begun turning brown before new ones emerge so as not to cause any damage in the process! Additionally, never remove more than 1/4th of a Tillandsia’s foliage at once – this could shock them and stunt their growth significantly! With regular pruning sessions you should find that your air plant stays looking neat and vibrant over time!
Common Air Plant Problems
Air plants, like most living things, can be susceptible to a variety of diseases or infestations if not taken care of properly. These problems can range from root rot caused by over-watering and poor drainage to fungal infections due to overcrowding in pots or lack of air circulation around the foliage. The best way to prevent these issues is through proper maintenance and observation; look out for signs that your plant may need more or less water as well as checking for any discolored leaves which could signal an infection. Additionally, some species are also prone to pests such as mealybugs so it’s important to inspect regularly and take action if needed!
Treating Air Plant Diseases
In the event that you do find yourself with a sickly looking Tillandsia don’t despair – there are ways you can help them recover depending on what kind of issue they have! If roots appear brown or mushy this typically indicates root rot which requires immediate attention before it spreads too far; trim away any dead parts using sharp scissors then replant into fresh soil mix within a larger pot with better drainage holes at the bottom. In cases where fungus has become visible on stems and leaves, simply remove affected areas immediately then spray down remaining foliage with diluted fungicidal solution made specifically for air plants (follow instructions carefully) in order to kill off spores before they spread further. It may take time but following these steps should bring your Tillandsia back into good health soon enough!
Where to buy Air Plants?
Air plants can be found almost anywhere you find houseplants and other items. Feel free to stop in and check out our wide variety or shop for air plants online. We have number of sizes and price points to choose from!