How to Take care of your Air Plants

Air Plant Care

Air Plants, also known as Tillandsia, are some of the easiest plants to care for, but they require proper environmental conditions to thrive. Although they do not require soil and take nutrients from the air, they still need water, nutrients, and light to survive. Air Plants are epiphytes, meaning they grow naturally on another tree, host, or object without stealing nutrients from it. Tiny vessels throughout their leaves, called trichomes, capture nutrients and moisture from the air.

Because they do not require soil, most Tillandsia can thrive in a wide range of settings, vessels, and spaces. This flexibility has made them popular decorations for homes and offices.

Air plants are easy to grow, but they still need regular attention. With proper care, Tillandsia can live for several years and may produce pups for additional years of enjoyment.

Use the guidance below to care for your air plant and keep it healthy.

Environment

The first thing to consider is your environment. General care advice should be adjusted according to local humidity, temperature, and airflow. In a dry climate, you may need to water more frequently or mist between soaks. In a humid location, less frequent watering may be required.

Air Plant Species

There are many species of Tillandsia, each with its own shape, size, growth pattern, and care preferences. Silver-leaved plants and varieties with more trichomes generally tolerate brighter light and slightly less water. Darker green plants often prefer more moisture and may be more susceptible to sun damage.

Always consider the needs of the specific variety when deciding how much light and water to provide.

Light

Air plants need bright light, but most varieties should be protected from harsh direct sun. Indoors, place them within approximately 3–5 feet of a bright window or near a suitable artificial light source. Outdoors, keep them in a bright, shaded area unless the variety is known to tolerate direct sunlight.

A bathroom or kitchen window with indirect light can work well because the additional humidity may benefit the plant.

Artificial light can also be sufficient when the plant is positioned close enough to the source and receives adequate light each day.

Water

Place the plants face down in a bowl, sink, or container and soak them for 10–20 minutes. After soaking, gently shake away excess water from the base. Standing water can cause rot and may damage or kill the plant.

Watering in the morning is recommended so plants have time to dry. Leave them in a well-ventilated area and make sure they dry within about four hours before returning them to a container. You can also use the dunking method by dipping the plant several times and shaking off excess water.

If a plant appears dehydrated, with closed or curled leaves, it may benefit from a longer soak. Never submerge an open bloom or flower because trapped water can cause it to rot.

When using tap water, allow it to stand for several hours before watering. Rainwater, aquarium water, pond water, spring water, or bottled water can also be used. Avoid distilled or artificially softened water.

Each variety may require a different watering schedule. Never plant an air plant in soil.

Air Circulation

Good air circulation is essential. After watering, plants should dry within approximately four hours. Air plants can be displayed in containers, but they should not remain in tightly enclosed vessels, and they must be completely dry before being returned to a container that restricts airflow.

Plants placed near air-conditioning vents may dry out more quickly and require more frequent hydration.

Terrariums and Globes

When keeping air plants in a terrarium or globe, remove them for normal watering and leave them outside the container until completely dry. Periodic light misting can provide humidity, but the amount should depend on the size and ventilation of the container. Smaller, enclosed globes need less misting, while larger and better-ventilated terrariums may tolerate a few sprays several times a week.

Always avoid over-misting and make sure the plant dries within a few hours.