Even the life cycle of these plants is rather unique . A single plant grows to maturity and then blooms . These blooms can be quite spectacular and can last from a few weeks to a few months . Once the bloom dies , small new plants begin to form at the base of the original plant . As the original plant dies back , the new plants grow up , starting the cycle again .
Lighting for most Tillandsias should be filtered sunlight , not direct . They will do nicely in a room that faces east , west , or south . Good air circulation is very important to these plants . In the summer they do enjoy being outdoors , but remember to keep them in filtered light . When placing the plants , keep them away from both hot and cold drafts that can dry them out . Bathrooms and kitchens make ideal locations due to the higher humidity levels in these rooms .
Watering is critical for Tillandsia . In a dry environment , they should be totally soaked a couple of times a week . Misting the plant is usually not enough . Ideally , they should be removed from their display , placed in the sink and soaked thoroughly with water from the faucet . Allowing the plants to dry is just as important . After watering , shake off any excess moisture gently and place the plant in a spot to dry . Misting them every second day will help keep them looking fresh and is especially important during the dry winter months . Look for signs that your air plants need more water by watching for drying leaf tips , rolling leaves , or browning .
The plants can be fertilized once a month from March to October with Bromeliad food ( 17-8-22 ). If you have problems finding this food , you can use Miracle-Gro at quarter strength for misting , or simply add the fertilizer to the soaking water bath .
Tillandsia Varieties To Try
Tillandsia bulbosa — 10 – 15 cm . Native to southern Mexico , the West Indies , Colombia , and Brazil , these plants can be found growing in dense masses on open trees . The plant is distinguished by its bulbous base from which bright green leaves originate . These leaves are 2.5 cm wide at their base and reach 15 cm long . They twist , turn , and contort as they spread out . The tubular flower is bright red and short with bright violet petals .
Tillandsia aeranthos — 7.5 – 10 cm . Native to Brazil , Uruguay , Argentina , and Paraguay . Compact rosette of stiff grey leaves . Forms colonies of plants . One of few Tillandsias to bloom annually . Inflorescence 12.5 cm long with brilliant colour , bracts are purplereddish , and flowers have petals of bright blue violet .
Tillandsia argentea — 5 – 7.5 cm . Native to Cuba , Jamaica , Guatemala , and Mexico . Soft grey leaves , 5 cm long . Rose-coloured inflorescence that bears six bright purple flowers . Plant resembles a pincushion . Good choice for beginners .
Tillandsia ionantha — 5 cm . Native from Mexico to Nicaragua . Miniature rosettes of greyish-green leaves . Flowers are a striking purple . Prefers full sun . Good plant for beginners .
Tillandsias can transform the smallest spot in your home into a piece of the tropics . They can also transform that indoor fountain into a living piece of nature , without a lot of fuss and bother . If you would rather not permanently attach your Tillandsia to an object or substrate , you can tie it down with fishing line or florist wire that can be easily removed when you need to put them in the sink for a drink . In addition to being very attractive , many of the plants are reasonably priced , making them highly collectible . Try your own piece of the tropics with Tillandsias , and don ’ t worry about the potting soil .
Gerald reminds us that gardening is a year-round form of entertainment both indoors as well as out . He has been the gardening columnist at the Edmonton Journal for more than thirty years and has been a writer for ARTA news & views since 2017 . news & views WINTER 2021 | 25