Everything You Need To Know About Air Plant Care

 

LIGHT: You should always provide a decent amount of light for your air plants. The only important thing to remember is to never leave them in direct sun during the summer months. If the plants are receiving too much light, they can dry out very easily. During the months of October through March, it is typically okay to leave them in direct sunlight, but keep a close eye on them to ensure that they are not overheating. In our house, we tend to keep our airplants no greater than 4 feet from a window, and in an area where they receive bright, indirect light. 

Artificial Light:
Florescent light is the ideal artificial light for air plants. Plants should be between 6" and 35" from the fluorescent tubes. Only give your air plants about 12 hours of light per day. If you are going to keep your air plants under artificial light, I would suggest using an automatic timer so that they receive the appropriate amount. 

Water: 
If you live in an arid environment, you should be watering your air plants multiple times per week. If you live in a cool, humid environment, you will be fine watering once per week. To water your air plants, simply fill a container full enough of water to fully submerse your plants. Leave your plants submerged for about 30 minutes and then remove to dry. Plants should be given enough light and air circulation to dry no longer than 4 hours after watering.

If possible, always turn air plants upside down to dry. This ensures that there is no standing water at the base of the plant - which is something that can easily rot out their interior. This is why you should also remove plants from decorative fixtures before soaking. If you are in a dry climate, consider misting your plants between waterings. You will know if your plants are not getting enough water as the leaves will start to unnaturally curve and they will feel dry to the touch. If you have mounted air plants, you may mist them, but be sure to do it often during the warmer months. 

Air Circulation:

Following each watering, Tillandsias should be given enough light and air circulation to dry in 4 hours or less. Do not keep plants constantly wet or moist.

Temperature:
The ideal outdoor temp range for air plants is between 50 - 90 degrees F. General indoor environmental temperatures are just fine for growing your plants. 

Fertilizer:
Use air plant fertilizer once or twice a month. It helps to aid in blooming and reproduction. We recommend Air Plant Hub's "Air Plant Food". It contains a blend of fertilizers specifically targeted to epiphytic plants (air plants)!