24/02/2020
***Species Spotlight***
Week #2: Tillandsia (aka living air plants)
Tillandsia are a very cool member of the bromeliad family. They only use their roots to fasten to rock/trees and obtain all their nutrients and water through their leaves!
Tillandsia are endemic (native to) northern Mexico and south-eastern United States, Mesoamerica and the Caribbean to mid Argentina.
There are close to 600 species and many more varieties of tillandsias to choose from in a huge range of sizes with some having startling flowers.
Most tillandsias grow to between 3cm to 20cm with some larger specimens to 1 meter.
Maturity (flowering) may take 5 to 20 years from seed depending on species.
Tillandsias require regular watering or misting every 1-4 days, and do best with a good soak once a week when kept indoors (twice if kept in a shade or greenhouse) in summer and once every 2-3 weeks in winter.
A very weak dose of plant food (1/3 normal strength)
in the water monthly will speed up the growth of the plants.
If you're after a low maintenance plant that looks beautiful then Tillandsia are for you!
And remember, If you're planning a getaway and want to make sure your plants are well cared for while you're away, give us a call or message today 👌🌱
