When it comes to plants, air plants are one of the most versatile and easy-to-care-for plants you can have in your home. Air plants don’t need soil, they’re drought-tolerant, and they can thrive in a variety of locations and temperatures. But, like any plant, air plants need some TLC to stay healthy and happy. Here are the best ways to take care of air plants.
Table of Contents
1. Plant Them in the Right Container
Air plants should be planted in a container with plenty of air circulation. A terrarium, vase, hanging planter, shell, or even a piece of driftwood are all great options.
2. Give Them Bright, Indirect Sunlight
Air plants love bright, indirect sunlight. Place them near a window that gets good, indirect light, or keep them in a room with plenty of natural light.
3. Water Regularly
Wondering how often to water air plants? It’s important to give your air plants regular water. The frequency of watering will depend on the size of the plant and where it’s located. A good rule of thumb is to soak the plant in a bowl of room-temperature water for 15-20 minutes once a week or twice a week during the warmer months.
4. Mist the Plant
In between waterings, misting your air plant can help keep it hydrated. Just a light misting will do the trick.
5. Use the Right Fertilizer
If you want to give your air plants an extra boost of nutrition, use a fertilizer specifically for air plants. Fertilizer can be added to the water or directly to the foliage when you soak the plant.
6. Prune
Pruning will help keep your air plant healthy and encourage new growth. Use sharp scissors to trim off any brown or dead leaves.
7. Don’t Overwater
Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes when it comes to air plants. Too much water can cause the leaves to rot, so be sure to only water when the soil is dry.
8. Don’t Have Too Much Air Flow
Air plants need air circulation, but too much can be damaging. Avoid placing them in a drafty area or in direct wind.
9. Don’t Place in Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can burn your air plants. If you’re going to place them in a sunny spot, make sure it’s indirect sunlight.
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10. Avoid Temperature Extremes
Air plants can suffer in extreme temperatures, so avoid placing them in overly hot or cold spots.
11. Rotate Your Plants
Rotating your air plants will ensure that each side of the plant receives an equal amount of light.
12. Repot When Necessary
Repotting your air plants every once in a while will help keep them healthy. Make sure to use a potting medium specifically for air plants.
13. Get Rid of Pests
If you notice any pests on your air plants, treat them immediately. Pests can damage the plants and spread to other plants in your home.
14. Use a Humidity Tray
If your air plants are in a dry environment, consider setting up a humidity tray. Place a layer of pebbles in a shallow dish, fill the dish with water, and place your air plants on top. The water will evaporate and create a humid environment for your plants.
15. Put Them on a Tray
Air plants need air circulation, but they can also benefit from being placed on a tray. Make sure the tray doesn’t have any sharp edges that could damage the leaves.
16. Keep Them Away From the Kitchen
Air plants are sensitive to steam, so it’s best to keep them away from the kitchen.
17. Clean the Leaves
Cleaning the leaves of your air plants will help them stay healthy. You can use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or dust.
18. Don’t Move Them Too Much
Air plants don’t like to be moved around too much, so be sure to give them a permanent spot in your home.
19. Get the Right Lighting
If you’re growing air plants indoors, make sure you’re providing the right lighting. Fluorescent bulbs are a great option for air plants.
20. Be Patient
Air plants can take some time to adjust to their new environment. Give them some time to adjust before you start making any drastic changes.
With the right care, air plants can be a great addition to your home. Keeping these tips from our indoor plant care guide in mind will help you keep your air plants healthy and happy.
FAQs
How often should you water air plants?
Air plants should be watered once a week by soaking in water for 10-15 minutes.
Can air plants survive in a bathroom?
Yes, air plants can survive in a bathroom as long as they receive enough light and humidity.
How long can air plants go without water?
Air plants can go up to two weeks without water, although they should be watered weekly for optimum health.
How do you take care of air plants for beginners?
Beginners should start by soaking their air plants in water for 10-15 minutes once a week and misting them with water a few times a week. They should also be placed in an area with bright, indirect sunlight and a humid environment.
