When it comes to our leafy friends, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Every plant has its own favorite “home” and nutritional needs, which is why your local garden center has aisles full of specialized potting mixes. But here’s a fun fact: some Bromeliads are so low-maintenance they don’t even need soil to thrive!
Does my Bromeliad need special soil?
Bromeliads love a substrate that is chunky and super airy—honestly, it looks a lot like the orchid mix you might already have in your shed. It usually contains bits of tree bark, but here’s the kicker: the mix isn’t really there to “feed” the plant. Its main job is to act as an anchor and keep the plant stable. Just make sure whatever you use is low-lime or lime-free, as Bromeliads are pretty sensitive to it.
What exactly is an “epiphyte”?
You might have heard the term “epiphyte” or “air plant.” These cool characters don’t grow in the ground; instead, they hitch a ride on other plants. They get their nutrients through aerial roots or directly through their leaves. You’ll find tons of these in tropical rainforests—many orchids fall into this category, and so do several types of Bromeliads. Instead of burying these varieties in a pot, they actually do much better when “mounted.”
How do I mount a Bromeliad?
To mount your plant, you’ll need a base and something to tie it down with. Stones, cork, or pieces of wood make great bases (just make sure the wood is durable and pest-resistant). For the actual attaching, you can use hot glue, silicone, or—my personal favorite hack—strips of nylon stockings. Nylons are super easy to work with and are very gentle on the plant’s delicate tissues.
Do air plants need special care?
Whether they are in a pot or mounted, most Bromeliads have similar tastes when it comes to their environment. They thrive in warm, bright spots with plenty of humidity. Watering a mounted plant can be a little tricky, though. You’ll want to pour water directly into the plant’s central “tank” (the funnel formed by the leaves) or give it a good misting with soft, lime-free water. Every two or three weeks, mix in a little liquid fertilizer to keep it happy.
Quick Guide to Soil and Nutrition:
- No soil is needed if you are mounting the plant.
- Use a loose, chunky substrate for potting.
- Keep the substrate slightly damp, but focus on watering the central leaf funnel.
- Most water and nutrients are absorbed through the leaves.
Pro Tip: Not all Bromeliads need soil to live their best life!
