The Bromeliad family is native to the tropics of Central and South America and contains over 3000 species. Bromeliads are naturally epiphytes where they often grow on rocks or trees. These low maintenance tropical plants come in unique shapes and sizes, bright colourful patterns and vibrant flower spikes that hold their colour for many months. Some of the popular Bromeliad genera include Vriesea, Aechmea and Tillandsia. They make wonderful houseplants for beginners, and add a tropical feel to any garden or indoor space.
Here’s how to care for your Bromeliad.
Most Bromeliad species require a medium to bright indirect light. Bromeliads can be grown in a bright spot indoors or a frost-free area outdoors. Keep your Bromeliad out of direct sunlight as the plant can burn.
Many Bromeliads have a tank where they store organic matter and water. Water your Bromeliad when the top 3-5 cm of soil becomes dry. Water by filling the centre of the plant’s tank and allowing the water to spill over onto the soil. Make sure to soak the tank and soil thoroughly. This flushes out any stagnant water and salt built up in the tank. Remove any excess water from the saucer as sitting in it can cause root rot. Keep the tank filled with water at all times but do not allow the water to overflow if the soil remains moist to the touch.
Epiphytic Bromeliad (air plants) can be watered by misting the plant regularly or soaking it in a sink of water once a week when the air is particularly dry.
Temperature & Humidity
Most Bromeliads are happiest in warm temperatures and high humidity. Your Bromeliad will enjoy a good misting, especially in an air-conditioned environment or in winter. You can also place the plant on a tray of pebbles and water to increase humidity.
For successful growth, feed your Bromeliad once or twice in the warmer months with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted by half in the tank, then empty it after one week and fill with filtered water.
Bromeliad leaves are losing its vibrant colours
Move the plant to a brighter spot as it needs more energy to bring out its vibrant colours.
White powder on the Bromeliad leaves
White powder on the leaves is a mineral build-up, which is commonly caused by watering with tap water. Spray the leaves with filtered water and wipe them down gently with a soft cloth. It’s best to water your Bromeliad with filtered water.
Bromeliad leaves are curling or have brown tips
Curling or brown tips on the leaves are commonly caused by underwatering. Make sure the tank is filled with water at all times, and only water the potting medium when the soil is dry to the touch. Mist the plant regularly to increase humidity.
Bromeliad drooping or turning brown
If your Bromeliad is properly cared for, but still find the plant is drooping and/or turning brown, it may have reached its life cycle. Your Bromeliad should produce offsets or pups from the base of your plant after its flower fades away. Allow the pups to grow once the mother plant dies before propagating them.