PLANT OF THE MONTH:
February 2012

Thriving Tillandsias
By Dr. Rahpee Thongthiraj

The bright foliage and vibrant blooms of these plants bring a fresh, tropical atmosphere to your home. The first question you might ask is, “What is a Tillandsia?” Unlike bromeliads, Tillandsias are air plants, which means they can absorb nutrients through their leaves, thus these unusual plants require no soil or other medium to thrive. Tillandsias prefer light conditions, sufficient ventilation, and daily misting in areas of low humidity. Although hardy and low-maintenance, Tillandsias need to be protected from frost conditions.

What makes this plant even more appealing is that you can grow them indoors such as, in a bathroom or living room. Provide a partial sunny area and ensure sufficient moisture for the plant. If kept indoors or in dry areas outside, then completely submerge them in water. Like cacti and succulents, Tillandsias will benefit from fertilizing; you can use a mild fertilizer solution such as, a diluted concentration of a Water Soluble Fertilizer (15-16-17).
Tillandsias can be displayed either sitting alone, or placed in a decorative container without soil, or mounted on a piece of driftwood. When you mount the Tillandsia, do not place the plant bases in depressions or cavities where water could collect, thereby leading to root rot.