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Can air plants live in a jar?
The air plants maxima’s brilliant purple bloom would look pretty amazing in a mason jar. Don’t get the smaller mason jars though, be sure you’re grabbing the large ones like these ones from Ball to ensure adequate space for growth, your succulents need room to breathe sometimes too!
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
how did you ask Well, it’s very simple; Air plants get all of the nutrients they need from the atmosphere around them. Therefore, soil material is not necessary for their growth. This in turn reduces the time required and the intensity of care by almost half.
Watering is done only once a week, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. They are then hung up to dry and returned to their place of residence. For lighting, they need either bright, indirect sunlight or well-regulated artificial lighting.
As a result, air plants are low-maintenance plants that thrive in any environment. Be it your home, your office or your classroom. Although you will be presented with many scenarios, you will face the dilemma of where to place them or rather how to display them.
Air plants are low maintenance plants @love_houseplants
What are air plants?
There are several varieties of air plants to choose from. We have the Funkiana, which looks like a miniature coniferous plant. There’s the Tetorum, which looks like a green octopus, and the Xerographia, which looks like a paper flower. Others are Bulbosa, Caput Medusae and air plants, Ionantha to name a few.
See more of a variety of other air plants.
Different ways of displaying air plants
For these unique looking plants, you’ll need quite a presentation to put them on display. Undoubtedly, their occupancy could be the only thing your desktop needs to make it look better. They transform a rather boring place into one full of happiness and life. Below are some ways you can display air plants.
1. Table terrariums
A terrarium is similar to an aquarium, but does not house fish, but plants and small animals. Air plants are an excellent addition to your glass terrarium. In addition, you can decorate the terrarium with marbles, tiny colorful stones, sea corals and moss. You can use one or more types of air plants to create an eccentric and versatile terrarium. Feel free to use a glass terrarium with different configurations, dimensions and shapes.
Here’s a large tabletop glass terrarium from Purzest that we might get our hands on. Can you imagine how cute mini succulents will be in here?
2. Open Mason Jars
Mason jars are another way to display your air plants. Make sure, however, that you do not cover the pot completely. Covered calyxes impede free air circulation, which can lead to nutrient deprivation from your plants. But if the lid is part of the decoration, then there is a way out. You can drill holes in the cover to allow air to circulate freely. The bright purple bloom of air plant maxima would look pretty amazing in a mason jar. Don’t get the smaller mason jars though, make sure you grab the big ones like these from Ball to ensure ample room to grow, your succulents sometimes need room to breathe too!
ALSO READ:
A mason jar @ekolama_inspo
3. Miniature Fairy Garden
Air plants can also call a miniature fairy garden a home. Fairy gardens are perfect landscapes where you can place not just one, but multiple plants. The best thing about fairy gardens is that you are open to whatever you want. Here you can let your imagination run wild. However, be sure to keep your air plants off the ground. Instead, place them on rocky surfaces, near small bodies of water, and other dirtless surfaces.
If you don’t know what a fairy garden is, then you’re in luck. Read all about it here, you will be very inspired to start your own business, trust us!
4. Hanging Vessels
Air plants’ property of not using their roots allows them to be grown in any direction. You can cultivate them upside down, right side up, or sideways. In fact, for species with small or small roots, you may not even know which side is up or down. And because of this, you can mount them in dangling vessels of any shape and form. The vessel can be a woven sisal basket or a metal spring.
5. Ceramic sculptures
An air plant like the Air Plants Cotton Candy can add joy to a rather dull ceramic sculpture on your bookshelves. These exquisite works of art, which come in amazing shapes and sizes, might be home to the more prominent, bolder species. The air plants can be placed around the edges or attached to any open and unrestricted areas of the sculpture. However, the arrangement depends on the model and style of the character.
The only thing we would suggest is to get some very stable figurines or sculptures. Succulents, houseplants in general, can be quite heavy when watering, and you don’t want them to tip over and break! A strong foundation is a good foundation.
For your bookshelves @sahayasharma
6. Metallic plant frames
The air plants look particularly charming when displayed on metallic plant frames. Well, these frames take it up a notch, allowing you to hang your plants on your wall as a work of art. You are also spoiled for choice as you can use any type of metal – gold, silver, copper or even painted steel. Bulbosa air plants, with their sinuous leaves and bulb-like appearance, would look great on a metal frame. The frames can be placed anywhere, from walls to floors, stairs, shelves to tables or desks.
7. Geometric Display Shelves
If you like mathematical, geometric shapes, then you have come across geometric display shapes. The shelves are available in different configurations and profiles according to the owner’s taste. And they can accommodate almost all kinds of air plants. The air plants can then be placed next to your colorful indigenous stone collection or next to your book set. The mantels can be pyramids, cubes, spheres and trapezoids to name a few.
8. Concrete planters
Other types of plants may not do as well when grown in a concrete planter. Especially those that don’t have drainage holes. Concrete planters tend to get too cold in the winter and chilly in the summer, which may not heat the soil efficiently. But for air plants that don’t need soil, concrete planters become ideal. Even those without drainage holes are likely habitats. The species Tillandsia capitata peach, Tillandsia aeranthos and Tillandsia cyanea can be placed on concrete planters.
Here are some minimalist concrete planters from POTEY if you want some for your succulent collection. Here is also a complete e-book on different types of planters if you are not satisfied with these concrete planters.
9. Wooden planters
Added wooden materials, an air plant on your desk at work looks great. The brown color of the wood complements the green, purple, or red pigments of air plants. It creates a pop that will add personality and an ambience to your space that will be appreciated by many. The species Tillandsia Andreana would look particularly good on a wooden planter.
If you want a little handling of these wooden planters and DIY. Learn how to make a driftwood planter from scratch here!
10. Hanging lightbulbs
As we strive for a world where we waste less and recycle more, old lightbulbs can come in handy to house air plants. They create such a spectacle, especially when cleaned and hung in strategic places like your patio, dining room or kitchen. Air plants like Tillandsia funkiana can gracefully grow their quill-like leaves in a pendulous bulb. And they can effortlessly flaunt their yellow leaves and neon orange flowers when they bloom.
If you’re struggling to find hanging flower bulb planters, here are some from Marbrasse and Luffy Pets Collection for you.
11. Glass bowls
Glass arches that previously served as small dwellings for fish can now be used as habitats for tillandsia plants. Filling one with gravel, decking it out with moss and finally placing your pink flowering air plants as the centerpiece will be a sight to behold. You are free to use any size, shape or color of bowl you want.
12. Vases
Vases are another place that Tillandsia plants can be at home. Although for a realistic look, you should choose small lenses or those with a small cut-out. Otherwise, your air plant might just fall in. The larger, bolder air plants would look fantastic on a vase. At least then you will have a long-lasting plant that does not need to be constantly replaced, like roses or other types of flowers.
13. Shells
Bowls come in a variety of sizes, configurations, and designs. These calcium-rich pods make an amazing addition to your windowsill, tabletops, bookshelves and balconies. And to make them even more appealing, you could add a colorful air plant like Fuego with its distinctive pop of red leaves. Her ombre pattern, which transitions from moss green to a bright red-pink, could make a plain white shell look wonderful.
14. Chains
A series of chains hanging from the ceiling at varying lengths can house a few air plants. For example, an air plant like the bulbosa can hang from a chain with its foldable leaves. Alternatively, the chain can be fitted with ornate containers for the air plants to call home.
15. Crystal Stones
Sparkling crystal stones like the clear quartz, the black tourmaline or the violet amethyst could be the home of your air plants. First you could drill a small hole in the top of the rock to place the plant. But for the hard, impenetrable ones, you can place the plant on the flattest side of the stone.
Stones for your plants @zielen_i_przestrzen
16. Rubber Artifacts
Whether it’s a rubber dinosaur or an eraser, both can be used as a home for your Tallindsia. Your imagination could be your guide here. You can even use a rubber tennis ball cut in half. As you have seen, the plants blend in with almost everything. You could also poke a tiny hole in your colorful eraser and place your air plant.
Are you inspired now?
We can say with confidence that the places to place or display your air plants are endless.
In principle, any surface in your household is suitable. You can even display the plants as they are on your windowsill. As long as the location you choose has adequate exposure to sunlight and is well ventilated.
Don’t be held back! Be creative and create a new home for your unique Tallindsia plants. Show us your air plants and planters here at the Succulent Lounge. We also have people who provide helpful tips on a daily basis!
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Do air plants do well in terrariums?
Air plants grow well displayed in terrariums, which are clear glass or plastic containers filled with small plants. Often terrariums are tightly closed, but my light-bulb shaped container has one side completely open to help with air circulation.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Obviously Edison is best known for inventing the lightbulb, so I took advantage of that by buying a small terrarium-type hanging planter shaped like a lightbulb. Inside is an air plant sitting in peat moss. It hangs above my kitchen window and I enjoy looking at it every day.
Air plants, also known as tillandsia, are interesting plants in the bromeliad family. All bromeliads are epiphytes, meaning they use something else for support. Therefore, in nature, plants use their root systems to grow harmlessly on trees and rocks. Instead of using their roots to get water and nutrients from the soil, they get them from the air and rain through their leaves.
To keep air plants healthy and happy, simply provide them with three ingredients – sun, water and air circulation.
First, light is needed in the form of filtered, non-direct sunlight through a south, east, or west window. In the summer you can hang them outside in a tree or some other sheltered spot.
Second, proper watering is key to growing tillandsia. I like to mist mine every few days to keep the sphagnum moss substrate moist, but allow the plant to dry out slightly between waterings. If the leaves curl or curl, they are too dry. To revive them, soak the plant in water overnight and shake off excess water before returning it to its display location.
Third, good air circulation will help the plant dry out a bit between waterings and prevent disease.
Air plants grow well on display in terrariums, which are clear glass or plastic containers filled with small plants. Terrariums are often tightly sealed, but my bulb-shaped container has one side that is completely open to help air circulation.
To learn more about terrariums, attend the Unique Indoor Terrariums webinar by Candice Miller, Extension Horticulture Educator Ensure Terrarium Success. The program will be offered on March 8th at 1:30 p.m. and repeated on March 10 at 6:30 p.m. Three display options are available.
All sessions can be viewed from home. Tuesday’s 1:30 p.m. session will be screened at the Peoria and Havana Extension offices. Recorded videos of these sessions can be viewed after the program.
For more information or to pre-register, visit http://web.extension.illinois.edu/fmpt/.
Can I put my air plant on rocks?
In fact the majority of air plants should NOT be planted in soil. You can easily layer moss, sand, or rock to create variation and texture in your terrarium. >You don’t want your air plants sitting against any moisture in their terrariums or holders, so make sure whatever base you use is completely dry.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
>As a base, you can use preserved reindeer moss, decorative sand, small stones, shells, bark, marbles, etc. The possibilities are endless when it comes to colors and textures of sand and stone for terrariums, so have fun with it!
> You don’t need soil for your air plants to thrive, so no need to add it here. In fact, most air plants should NOT be planted in soil. You can easily layer moss, sand or rocks to create variety and structure in your terrarium.
> You don’t want your air plants sitting in their terrariums or holders against moisture so make sure the base you use is completely dry.
> Another thing to keep in mind is the type and size of terrarium you are building. Where is this terrarium exhibited? Is it hanging or sitting on the table? Answering these questions should help you decide which substrate to use in your terrarium. Moss as a base layer may be better suited for hanging terrariums as moss is not as heavy as sand and is less likely to move and create a mess if the terrarium is swaying a bit.
>Small pieces of bark or driftwood can give your terrarium a pretty rustic look as a base or accent, but make sure the wood you use is pest free. We like to use orchid bark, which you can find at Lowe’s or Home Depot. Be wary of any bark or sticks you might find outside as they may contain pests or insects that could harm your plant.
Watering your plants and terrariums:
Be careful not to water your plants while they are in your terrarium as this can result in too much moisture getting trapped between moss, rocks etc and your plants will rot.
Take out the plants and water/spray them and then make sure they are completely dry before placing them back in your terrarium.
There should be no water or condensation in your terrarium or on the tillandsia.
If you have any questions about building your terrarium or need terrarium accessories, email us at [email protected], we’re happy to help!
Or, if you want a kit that includes everything you need, look no further, we’ve got those too!
Take a look at these terrarium kits that have everything you need to build your own DIY terrarium!
Do air plants have to be in glass?
The objective is to have bright indirect light during the middle of the day with a couple hours of direct sun either in the morning or afternoon. So, to recap, the basics to create a good home for Tillandsia are an open glass vessel, inert drainage media, perhaps some decorative moss, and proper light levels.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
As with all air plants, we need to understand how tillandsias grow in order to care for them optimally. Tillandsias are epiphytes, which means they are not usually parasitic on other plants. They can be divided into two distinct categories: Mesic and Xeric. Mesic strains are often found high in the tree canopy of the American tropics, informing us that they typically have bright indirect light, good air circulation, frequent rainfall, and roots intended for anchoring. On the other hand, xeric varieties grow on exposed rock faces and ledges. These types of air plants need much less water, prefer small doses of direct sunlight and lots of air movement, and also have roots meant for anchoring. The xeric strains differ from the mesic ones by the trichomes that cover their leaves to draw extra moisture from the air. They appear to have almost a silver coat in contrast to the lustrous shade of green found on mesic air plants.
Understanding the native conditions in which tillandsias thrive allows us to create a better environment for them in our homes. Since all tillandsias do well in moist conditions, I always recommend keeping them in an open terrarium. The trick is to create an environment that has a higher relative humidity than our typical homes, but also has good air circulation. Keeping a Tillandsia under a bell or in a closed terrarium can only end with a doomed plant. So look for glass jars with holes on the sides or a large top opening.
While traditional terrariums need many layers (as discussed in a previous blog post), an air plant terrarium really only needs one: the drainage layer. The goal of the drainage medium is to keep the plants from ever standing in water and can be made of almost anything that won’t rot. You can also add some moss or lichen for decoration and increase the humidity.
Last but not least, but perhaps most importantly, tillandsias need proper lighting conditions. Many people try to keep their air plants in too little light. Our homes are caves compared to their natural habitats. Ideally, try to keep them by either an east-facing or west-facing window. You can also stand by or near a bright, south-facing window. The goal is to have bright indirect light during the day with a few hours of direct sun either in the morning or afternoon.
To recap, the basics of creating a good home for tillandsias are an open glass jar, inert drainage media, maybe some decorative moss, and proper lighting.
The equipment to properly water and feed these little oddities are mostly items you can find around your house. In her book Air Plants: The Curious World of Tillandsias, Zenaida Sengo best describes how to water air plants by comparing them to a kitchen sponge. You don’t want the sponge to dry out completely, and you can water it in a number of ways: frequent misting, regular dipping, or occasional soaking.
Spraying should be done every day or every other day using a small spray bottle. To soak a plant, you can soak it in a colander under the sink, in a terrarium with a deep layer of drainage, or in a bowl of water two to three times a week. To soak the plants, remove them from their container and soak them in a bowl of water for 10 minutes to an hour once a week. Regardless of the method chosen, the water collected in the shell of the leaves should be shaken out to prevent the plants from rotting. Remember: Dry varieties need less watering.
Like all plants, tillandsias need occasional feeding for optimal growth. I recommend combining a kelp product in solution with a balanced water-soluble orchid food. You can feed them a half dose every few weeks or a full dose every month for up to three months.
With this basic understanding, you should be ready to successfully cultivate these little miracles!
How often do I mist my air plant?
Mist your plant every 4-5 days with one spray for tiny globes, 2-3 sprays for globes 3-5 inches, more if the plant is in a large open globe. The key is to judge the drying time, the smaller the globe, the less circulation, the longer the plant will hold the moisture. If you over water the plant will die.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Outdoors, you may never need to water tillandsias if you live in the humid Southeast or Florida. The hotter and drier the air indoors, the more you need to water. Plants should receive enough light and air circulation to dry out in no more than 3 hours after watering. Wind can be a disadvantage as the plant dries too quickly. Keep that in mind, too, indoors with a window fan. If the plant dries in a very short time, it is not moisturizing at all. Spray mist is inadequate as the sole means of watering, but can be beneficial in dry climates between regular waterings to increase humidity.
If the plant is in a bowl, be sure to empty the water. Tillandsia will not survive in standing water. Underwatering is evidenced by an exaggeration of the natural concave curvature of each leaf. After thoroughly wetting your plants, turn them over and gently shake them. I have found that the water pooling near the base is harmful if left on for too long. I lost many plants this way while learning. One last thing about watering your air plant – It’s much better to water in the morning than at night. Air plants absorb the carbon dioxide from the air at night instead of during the day. When the plant is wet it will not breathe unless it can dry quickly at night, schedule morning baths. Learn a little more about casting in this blog post
How long do air plants live?
Tillandsias, commonly known as air plants, are perennial plants. This means that they typically live for more than two years (source), with their lifespan ranging between 2 to 5 years. However, their lifespan varies depending on the type of air plant and also the growing conditions.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
What is the lifespan of air plants?
The lifespan of an air plant is between 2 and 5 years. Air plants are perennials, meaning they live longer than two years. Their lifespan is affected by the Tillandsia species and growing conditions (environment, light, temperature, etc.).
Keeping your air plant healthy and living long is rewarding in many ways. Let’s see how to extend their lifespan and revive them!
air plant lifespan
If you have one or more air plants, you’ll want to know more about them so you can continue to take proper care of your plants.
Because of this, knowing about the lifespan and life cycle of air plants (how long they are expected to live) is a good place to start.
What is the lifespan of air plants?
How long do jade plants live? Compl… Please enable JavaScript How long do jade plants live? Complete Guide to Keep Them Alive 2021
Tillandsias, commonly known as air plants, are perennial plants. This means they typically live longer than two years (source), with their lifespans ranging from 2 to 5 years.
However, their lifespan varies depending on the type of air plant and also the growing conditions. In their natural habitat, they live on branches of trees, in deserts, and on other substrates (other surfaces on which they can grow).
Air plants flower once in their life, and this flowering represents the peak of their life cycle—their maturity.
After flowering, the flowers can last for several months, depending on the species. But when the flowers begin to fade and wither, the air plant begins to die. Before they die, air plants produce hatchlings or offshoots to continue the same growth cycle.
Although the mother dies, you can remove the hatchlings from the mother plant and raise them individually. The process of separating the pups from the mother is called “division” and is a way of propagating air plants.
Alternatively, you can keep these pups together so they form a group or clump (aka “Tilllandsia balls”).
Also Read: Life Cycle, Reproduction, and Growth Rate of Air Plants.
Air plant is dying
Although it may seem obvious, I get questions like this:
Here you can see a hatchling growing (full of life) from the base of the mother plant (drying out).
So how do you know if your air plant is dying?
Signs of a dying air plant
Here are the most common signs that your air plant is dying:
When the leaves dry up, wrinkle or curl up.
When the core rots. When the air plant succumbs to rot, the base of the plant turns black or brown.
How do you know when air plants are dead?
When is an air plant dead?
How to tell if an air plant is dead: If you rip out the dead leaves, the entire air plant will fall apart.
Though it’s often easier to know your air plant is dead than to identify why.
Why is my air plant dying? (And what to do about it)
Your air plant could die due to the following reasons:
Underwatering: The air plant will begin to dry out and its leaves will wrinkle or curl up.
The air plant will begin to dry out and its leaves will wrinkle or curl up. Overwatering: The air plant will begin to turn black or brown at the base and rot. Eventually the leaves fall off from the center.
The air plant will begin to turn black or brown at the base and rot. Eventually the leaves fall off from the center. Sunburn: Although air plants can tolerate some direct sunlight, they need to acclimate first. If you suddenly move your air plant to a sunny spot, chances are your plant will get sunburned. The leaves may appear bleached and the tips of the leaves may become crispy.
Although air plants can tolerate some direct sunlight, they need to acclimate first. If you suddenly move your air plant to a sunny spot, chances are your plant will get sunburned. The leaves may appear bleached and the tips of the leaves may become crispy. The life cycle is complete: air plants begin to die after flowering, but that doesn’t happen immediately – they can persist for years. After flowering and producing pups (no matter what you do), your Tillandsia will eventually die, but not before she has put all her energy into growing the offsets. Depending on the species, this can take up to several years. In this case, it is a natural death, i. H. part of the life cycle of a Tillandsia.
I just said “no matter what you do”… but there are some tips you can follow to revitalize and extend the life of your air plant! 🙂
Also read: 13 Common Air Plant Problems, Pests, and Diseases – includes tips on spotting the signs and avoiding the problems.
How to revive an air plant
Can you revive a dead air plant?
If an air plant is dead, there is no way to revive it.
However, you may be able to feed it back to health if the plant is not completely damaged.
An air plant revival is an option if you see vibrant splashes of color on the leaves. This is a sign of hope. 🙂
Look for green, healthy leaves on the plant. But if there aren’t any, it’s okay to compost (or throw away) your air plant.
But how do you revive an air plant?
There are two easy ways to add life to your air plants:
Step 1: Soak the air plant overnight.
Soak the air plant overnight. Step 2: Remove the dead leaves.
1) Soak an air plant overnight
Soaking your tillandsia is the best way to revive air plants, and the most effective method of soaking is overnight soaking.
What you need:
A bowl – large enough to completely submerge your air plant.
Lukewarm water.
Garden twine (a soft twine that will not damage the plant).
A pebble or stone (any weight).
paper towel.
your air plant! 🙂
How to do it step by step:
Pour lukewarm water into a bowl. Make sure it’s deep enough to soak the entire air plant and allow a few inches above the plant. Take your air plant and dunk it. The key is to keep the plant submerged in water. To prevent it from floating to the top, you can carefully tie the air plant to a rock with some garden twine. This keeps it submerged all night. Make sure the plant is completely covered. You can always add extra water if needed, but make sure it’s lukewarm. Keep your air plant under water for 6 to 8 hours. This gives them enough time to absorb moisture and nutrients. Once your tillandsia has finished soaking, it’s time to remove it from the bowl. Be sure to shake off any extra moisture or wetness from the air plant. Finally, let your air plant dry on a paper towel in a well-lit area for 4 to 5 hours. However, avoid direct sunlight, extreme heat (like a heater or radiator), and frost (near a window sill in winter). This last step is crucial as moisture can encourage rot, which is a death sentence.
Insider Tip: Use lukewarm water to soak your air plants. The warm temperatures provide a gentle bath that revitalizes the air plants. Try to maintain a temperature between 18º and 24ºC (65º to 75ºF).
It is possible that a single soak will not be enough.
Check your air plant for leaf curl after 2 to 3 days of overnight soaking.
If the air plant still has ruffled leaves, you can repeat the soaking process.
Once your air plant is back to life and doing well, follow a watering routine that suits your tillandsia.
Also read: How to Water Air Plants – How to Water and Mist Air Plants.
2) Remove dead leaves from an air plant
The other step you can take is to remove dead leaves.
What you need:
Secateurs (smaller scissors suitable for such work).
Your air plant with brown leaves.
How to do it step by step:
Just cut off the dead leaves. You can also do this by gently tugging at the leaves, but you must be careful not to stuff the whole plant. Unfortunately, if pulling causes the entire plant to fall apart, that means your air plant is already dead.
There are many reasons you might want to remove dead leaves:
Leaving dead leaves on a plant restricts airflow and absorption of sunlight for healthy leaves. Plucking dead leaves also keeps plant pests at bay, as some pests are strongly attracted to rotting leaves. The problem will soon spread to the healthier leaves. Finally, removing dead leaves allows healthier leaves to grow.
Because air plants get their nutrients and moisture from the atmosphere, removing those dead leaves may be enough to bring your air plant back to life. 🙂
Also Read: 13 Common Air Plant Problems, Pests, and Diseases.
How to extend the life of an air plant
Finally, the following 5 care tips will show you how to extend the life of an air plant.
1) Take care of the flowering air plant
As expected, a flowering air plant requires a little more water than usual. This is because the plant focuses all of its energy on buds and producing offsets, or puppies.
Insider Tip: To prolong the life of the air plant flower, try to keep the flower dry when watering. i.e. do not get water into the flower.
Since soaking the flower in water will cause it to wilt or rot, instead of sucking up your air plant while it’s blooming, here’s what you can do:
Option A: Mist your air plant with a spray bottle or atomizer.
Mist your air plant with a spray bottle or atomizer. Option B: Hold the flowering air plant under lukewarm running water to wet just the leaves.
2) Water depending on air system type
Air plants need water. But one might ask:
How much water does my air plant need?
There are many different tillandsia varieties from different native habitats.
One of the key factors in determining the type of care and environment your tillandsia will prefer is whether it’s a mesic or dry air plant—or something in between.
Mesic and xeric terms refer to the type of natural environment the tillandsia originates from and will therefore prefer to thrive in.
Mesic Air Plants: Their natural habitat is the earth’s shade or in the lower levels of forests (like South American rainforests). Originate from climates with moderate humidity. Prefer frequent watering and indirect or filtered sunlight. Often have smooth green leaves with less visible trichomes.
Xeric Air Plants: Originate from drier or desert-like habitats and mostly live in the upper floors of the forest and on rocks. Live in low-rainfall areas with high humidity. Prefer less watering and bright direct sunlight. Often have blurry looking gray or light green leaves with abundant trichomes.
Also read: How to Water Air Plants – How to Water and Mist Air Plants.
3) Provide the appropriate environment
When I look at an air plant’s environment, I’m referring to light levels, humidity, and room temperature.
Depending on what type of air plant you have (Xeric or Mesic), it will thrive in different environments.
Mesic air plants prefer moderate humidity and indirect or filtered sunlight. On the other hand, dry air plants thrive in high humidity and bright, direct sunlight.
Also Read: Air Plant Light Guide – How Much Light Do They Need?
4) Trim and care for your air plant
Getting brown leaves is part of an air plant’s life cycle. Over time, some of the lower leaves of these epiphytes will dry out (turn brown) or wither due to age, climatic conditions, etc.
As I mentioned in the Removing Dead Leaves From An Air Plant section, you can help your air plant by simply peeling off or cutting away dead leaves.
This encourages the growth of new leaves and promotes healthier development of the existing leaves.
5) Apply fertilizer (optional)
Air plants do not need to be fertilized. However, if you fertilize your air plants occasionally, this will:
Accelerate the reproduction of puppies.
Encourage more vibrant blooms.
Save your life and stay healthy.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a fertilizer for air plants:
Use a water soluble fertilizer.
Choose a fertilizer without urea. Nitrogen should be in the form of ammonium or nitrate, not urea (since urea must be broken down by bacteria in the soil).
Avoid copper and zinc micronutrients as they are toxic to air plants.
My recommendation is an air plant specific fertilizer like this one.
How to fertilize your air plant:
Use 1/4 the strength recommended on the label. Fertilize only once a month during the growing season. You can do it during soaking sessions.
Also Read: Air Plant Nutrient Guide – When Should Tillandsias Be Fertilized?
PS For more information on how to keep air plants alive, check out our Air Plant Care Guide.
Do air plants require soil?
Air plants are usually tiny, easy to grow, and they don’t need soil. As the name implies, air plants absorb nutrients and water from the air through scales on their leaves. They’re having a moment as houseplants because they’re easy to care for and don’t need much light to thrive.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
How long can air plants go without water?
Air plants can live for two weeks without water. And even though the plant is still alive, its health is affected. You should soak your air plants in water at least once in two weeks and mist them once a week regarding the proper watering schedule.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Proper care is a perfect recipe for thriving air plants. As much as air plants are among the easiest houseplants to care for, it would be best if you still gave them some attention. To give your air plants any attention, you must provide them with the water they need, adequate light, good air circulation, and promoting their health with fertilizers such as orchid plant fertilizer.
Air plants can live without water for two weeks. And although the plant is still alive, its health is compromised. You should soak your air plants in water at least every two weeks and mist them once a week in regards to proper watering schedule.
Table of Contents
Frequent watering will keep them hydrated and have all the moisture they need to carry out vital processes like photosynthesis. But what happens when you can’t water your air plants on schedule? How long can they survive without water?
We have put together this very informative article to clear up this topic. Are you planning to be away from home for a few days and worried that your air plants may wither during your absence? Or do you have a busy schedule and no time to water your air plants as needed? If yes, this article is for you! Read on to learn how long it takes for your air plants to actually suffer from lack of water.
Factors that affect how long air plants can live without water
To start, we will list some of the factors that determine how long air plants can go without water. This includes:
your natural habitat
The types of tillandsia
The indoor conditions
The climate of the region
Seasons and the current weather
Now let’s explore further how each of these factors affects the length of time an air plant can go without getting water.
your natural habitat
Indoor air plants are divided into two categories based on their physiology and relationship to water. They can be either mesic or xeric. Mesic air plants are those whose natural habitat is heavy rainforest canopies, and these areas are known to have high humidity levels. On the other hand, dry air plants are native to higher elevation areas with drier conditions and longer light periods.
An air plant’s natural habitat has a significant impact on how long it can go without water. Xeric air plants are more tolerant of dry conditions than mesic ones. You find dry air plants in deserts and mountain regions, the arid habitats. Therefore, these plants are used to living without water for months, and they have a more excellent ability to wick moisture from the surrounding air.
The situation is different with mesic air plants. In their natural environment, they are used to good humidity and therefore need regular watering. The longest they can survive without water is two weeks.
The species of air plant
The type of air plant also affects how long it can go without water. For example, you will find that Tillandsia xerographica plants have a higher drought tolerance than other varieties such as Tillandsia cyanea. Also, air plants with silvery leaves survive longer without water than those with dark green leaves.
Another aspect that causes differences in how long different types of air plants can survive without water is the trichomes. These hairy substances on their leaves help absorb water, just like roots in other plants. The more trichomes a particular species has, the longer it can survive without water. In short, we have air plant varieties that can go about two weeks without water.
The indoor conditions
Moisture levels vary in different places in a home. You’ll find that if you put your air plants in one particular spot in your home, they may be exposed to more moisture than another. For example, an air plant placed by a bathroom window will receive more moisture than one placed near a fireplace. Also, an air plant near a kitchen sink is exposed to more moisture than one by the living room window.
These conditions directly correlate to how long an air plant can go without water. If your indoor air plant is in a high humidity area, it can survive for a long time without needing to be watered, and that’s because it easily picks up moisture from the surrounding air. But if indoor conditions are dry, your air plant will experience the adverse effects of underwatering within a few days.
An air plant placed on a bathroom window can survive without water for two weeks, while a plant near a fireplace will become dehydrated within a week.
The climate of the region
Different climate zones determine the watering needs of air plants. Those in dry climates will need to water their plants more than those in a humid environment. It also means that if you live in an arid climate like Arizona, your air plant won’t survive without water. In this case, the same notion of the amount of moisture available in the air applies. In arid climates, your air plant has no alternative but to obtain water from the surrounding air as it is limited.
But if you are in a humid area like Alaska, your air plants can survive without water for long periods of time. The natural moisture in the air keeps plants sufficiently moist, allowing you to skip more days without misting them. Such plants also need to be soaked less often. We can safely say that an air plant in a humid climate can survive without water for a few weeks, while a plant in a dry environment will be thirsty within a few days.
Seasons and the current weather
The seasons change within a year and will affect the water needs of your air plant. During the winter months, your plants can survive up to three weeks without watering as the environment is humid enough. However, be aware that this may be affected as we often use heaters this season.
A heater can dry out your air plants, which means you have to water them more. The best thing to do is when your plant is thirsty and water accordingly.
Also, it’s hot in the summer months and your plant is likely to get a lot of sunlight. It therefore means you need to water it more frequently. At this time of year, your air plant cannot go without water for more than a week. Even if it survives this drought, it will not thrive.
Room without window for houseplant Please enable JavaScript Room without window for houseplant
What happens if air plants remain without water for a long time?
If you are away from home for a few days, your air plant may need to go without water during this time. You are probably wondering how this will affect your plant. If your air plant is left without water for a long time, it will become dehydrated and you will observe the following:
The tips of the leaves begin to dry out, turning brown and crusty.
The leaves may also curl.
Your air plant will look a little boring.
The shape of the leaves will be affected and you will see their concave nature appear enhanced.
The good thing is that fixing the situation is possible and easy if done in time. The first thing you will do when you get home is remove the dead or dry parts of the air plant. You then get a bowl of water and soak your plant for a few hours. The best water for this is rainwater or unchlorinated water. After soaking, allow your plant to drain excess water before returning it to its original location.
Give her adequate water afterwards, both by soaking and spraying, and she will thrive again. Air plants are hardy plants and are considered difficult plants to kill. Worry less that a lack of water can cause you to lose your precious plant. However, make sure that your plant does not stand for too long without getting water. Water is still an essential part of its life and you don’t want to intentionally deprive your beloved air plant of this precious substance.
Summarize
Air plants are indoor plants that can go without water for a long time. Based on our findings, the average time air plants can survive without water is about two weeks, and this time can be lengthened or shortened by the factors discussed above. To sum it all up, we pointed out that:
Your air plant’s natural habitat will determine how long it can go without water. When dry, it can survive even more than two weeks because it is used to dry conditions. But if it’s a mesic, don’t leave it thirsty for more than two weeks.
Certain species of air plants are built to survive longer periods of drought. It’s important to consider the type of air plant you have before determining how long you can leave it without water. Looking at simple things like the type of leaves is helpful.
The room conditions you expose your air plant to also play a role. Put your plant in a humid spot and have the freedom to skip more days without watering and vice versa.
Finally, both the area’s climate and the time of year have an impact on how long your air plant can survive without water.
You can find the full tillandsia care guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Plants (Tillandsias)
Does Tillandsia need light? In general, tillandsias (air plants) prefer bright but indirect, filtered light. Because they require indirect light, air plants make great office plants as long as they get some light, either indirectly from a window source or artificially from full-spectrum fluorescent lights. How Long Do Tillandsia Flowers Last? If you have a flowering air plant, it often takes 2-3 weeks to flower! Unfortunately flowering time is shortened if the flower gets wet – so only half submerge the flowering Air plant during this time. How long does it take for tillandsia to bloom? Air plants are slow growers, flowering only once in their lifespan, which can last anywhere from one to two years. How long do you soak tillandsia? Soak your air plants in a bowl of water for 20 minutes to an hour every week for up to 10 days. Submerge the entire plant. When your plant is in bloom, you may want to keep the bud above the water so as not to disturb them, although in nature they get constantly wet. Where should I put my air plant? Air plants do best with a few hours of bright, indirect sun each day. A placement within 1 to 3 feet of an east or west facing window is ideal, or within a foot or two of an artificial light source. If you water them well, they can get hotter, more direct, and longer exposure to the sun. Avoid dimly lit places.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we believe that no precise timeframe responds to how long air plants can remain without water. Several factors influence this and you may need to draw an individual conclusion when observing your plants based on the various personalized factors.
But what we can say is if you give your air plants the best care and choose a species that suits your environment, they will be able to survive longer without water. So when it’s time to leave the house for a few weeks, worry less about your air plants dying and trust that they have the inherent capacity to wait for you!
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What should I put air plants in?
Air plants receive their nutrients from the surrounding air and moisture. So, it’s easy to find them a place. Put them in regular pots, terrariums, frames, seashells, urchins, baskets, and bowls. You can also hang or attach them to wood, cork bark, and wreaths using wires, fishing lines, or glue.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Air plants are very popular among plant lovers, especially those who want greenery in their homes but don’t have much time to tend to them. They require very little maintenance and come in a variety of shapes, colors and textures.
This post may contain affiliate links and I love all the products I promote.
Air plants get their nutrients from the surrounding air and moisture. So finding a place for them is easy. Place them in regular pots, terrariums, frames, shells, sea urchins, baskets and bowls. You can also hang or attach them to wood, cork bark, and wreaths with wires, fishing line, or glue.
Read on to find out how to care for and water your air plants depending on where you plan to put them.
What are air plants?
Tillandsia, or air plant, gets its name because it relies on air to survive. There are several types of air plants with different shapes, colors and textures. Their main similarity is that neither of them require the soil as their primary food source.
Air plants come from South America and Mexico. They filter the air as they grow, and when they are happy with their surroundings, they bloom flowers. Eventually the flowers will dry up, then you should cut them off. This way your beautiful air plant can grow more of it.
Some varieties, such as spider plant, have typical earth root systems. Still, even these species don’t rely on their roots to get all the nutrients they need.
A family of aerial plants called epiphytes use their roots only to attach themselves to other plants, branches, trunks, rocks, or cliffs. They get their food from the moisture in the ambient air or rainwater. They have developed pores on their leaves that can absorb food.
Types of Air Plants
There are many types of air plants to name, but to help you decide where to place your air plant, you should be able to tell these two types apart:
Xeric: Xeric air plants come from drier climates where they get less rain and more sunlight. They evolved to collect as much water as possible when it rains and store it for long periods of drought. You can tell them apart by looking at their downy and feathery leaves, which look like they’re coated in a layer of dust. They are mostly gray and white in color.
Mesic: These air plants originally come from shady, humid areas and rainforests. They get a lot of rain and don’t tolerate bright sunlight. Mesic varieties have shiny and smooth leaves, which means they offer less protection from the sun and tend to dry out.
Knowing your air plant type will help you better understand how to care for it and therefore where to place it in the home.
Things to consider when caring for air plants
light
All air plant varieties need some amount of daily sunlight or artificial light to thrive. Depending on the species, you can find a suitable place for them in your home.
Mesic varieties with green leaves can live happily in bright places and spots that don’t get much light. Xeric Air plants need to be in a lighter spot.
However, none of the air plant species tolerate long hours of direct sunlight. They grow on trees and rocks in dense jungle in the wild, where the tree leaves don’t let the sun hit them directly. Also, they cannot grow healthily in dimly lit rooms.
You can place both Mesic and Xeric types within 1 to 3 feet of east, west, or south facing windows. If you are using artificial lights for your plants, place them within 1 to 2 feet of the source.
Be wary of direct sunlight if your air plant is behind glass. The glass creates a magnifying effect that exposes your plant to extremely high temperatures.
temperature
Air plants come from warm areas. Regardless of whether the environment is dry or humid, you should not let the temperature drop below 45°F (7°C) or your plants will begin to rot and die. The best temperature range you can provide is between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (26°C). Don’t place your air plants near an air conditioner, fireplace, or near a window during the cold winters.
water
The way you water your air plant depends on where and how you display it. How much you should water each plant depends on its species and the humidity of the area you live in.
Water your plants in the morning to allow the water to evaporate from their leaves throughout the day. Both rainwater and tap water can work as long as they are at room temperature. Do not use commercial water softeners that substitute sodium chloride for calcium and magnesium ions on your air plants, as the salt will damage them.
fogging
If you can’t move your plants, your only option is to spray them with a spray bottle. All air plant species can be sprayed, but Xerics prefer it as they don’t need a lot of water.
Depending on the species, you need to spray the plant every two or three days. Spray more frequently in sunny weather or dry winters. Try to get the water on all the leaves and wet the plant thoroughly.
immersion
For mesic air plants with thick green leaves, submerging can be a good choice as they require more water. This approach works better than spraying on plants with dense or curly leaves because the water can reach all of their parts. You can either hold them under running water or submerge them in a bowl of water for a few seconds.
soaking
Some believe that soaking is not enough and you should soak the plant in water for five minutes to half an hour.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to let the air plant dry completely before transplanting. Leaving the plant wet for a long period of time will result in rot, especially when the temperature drops during the night and the humidity around the plant becomes cold. Don’t put your plant on top of moss when it’s still wet, as moss absorbs moisture and stays wet.
Shake the plant to remove excess water or lay it upside down on a towel. Pay special attention to plants with bulbous bases where water can pool and cause rot.
use of fertilizer
In order to have healthy and robust air plants, you need fertilizers. Water-soluble fertilizers for orchids, cacti, or bromeliads work well for all air plants. Air plants cannot use urea nitrogen, and these fertilizers do not contain it.
Remember to dilute the mixture with water according to the directions on the package. Either fill a spray bottle with the combination and mist your plant, or dip the air plant in the mixture.
You shouldn’t use too much fertilizer every round as it can burn your plant. It is enough to fertilize your plant every one to two months.
Stay away from fertilizers that contain copper, zinc, or boron, as they are all highly toxic to air plants.
remove pests
Unless you keep your air plants next to your other plants or in the garden, they are likely pest-free. Occasionally, mealybugs, scales, or insect mites can infest your plant and feed on its juices. You will see the leaves covered with a cotton-like substance or tiny insect eggs.
First try to flush the pests from the leaves. You can also soak the whole plant in water for a while until the pests suffocate. If that doesn’t work, dampen a cloth with some rubbing alcohol and wipe the leaves with it.
Using insecticides is also an option, but be careful with those that contain soap, as these can clog the pores of the plant.
What can you use to secure an air plant?
root
Air plants use their roots to anchor themselves to trees and rocks in the wild. You can do the same with any object of your choice, but it will take some time. Be patient and don’t move them until they attach to the object. Although you can cut off their roots if you want to detach them from the object in the future, it’s best to make sure you really want them there before growing the roots.
Cable
Using a wire is the most efficient way to attach an air plant to any object as you can easily remove and rearrange the plant. Make sure the wire does not contain copper as it is toxic to air plants. It’s best to use wires with some kind of coating to prevent rusting when watering your air plant.
Thread the wire through the lower leaves, then wrap it around the base of the plant before securing it in the ideal spot.
fishing line
You can use fishing line just like wires. They are invisible, so they add to the beauty of your decoration. Simply thread the line through the leaves and secure with a knot around the base.
Fishing line is also great for hanging the air plants from the ceiling or an object.
U Bolt
U-bolts can be an easy choice when you want to attach your air plant to a piece of wood. After installing them, simply place the air plant in the hole and remove it for watering whenever you like. Make sure the U-bolt is not copper. An iron U-bolt should have a coating to prevent rust from forming as it can also damage your air system.
This method is the most permanent option. You cannot move your plant if you stick it to the object you want.
The best glue for this project is flower glue because it won’t harm the plant and it’s also waterproof.
You can also use hot glue guns, but they won’t last long because of the constant pouring. Allow the glue to cool as much as possible before gluing the plant. Don’t get the glue on the leaves and just dab the glue on the base. The leaves will eventually fall off, and you’ll have to go through this process all over again.
Never use super glue as it can hurt air plants.
Now let’s discuss the best places to place and display air plants.
terrariums
Glass terrariums are a popular choice for housing air plants. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some have flat bottoms, making them perfect for shelves, tables, and stands.
You can decorate your terrarium in different ways. For example, fill the bottom with decorative sand or gravel and put in different sized air plants along with moss, shells, driftwood or rocks to create a natural landscape.
However, terrariums do not let much air through, which makes it difficult for the plants. After all, they are “air” plants and need to be grown outdoors. The terrariums with wider openings are more suitable.
pots and stands
You can simply place your air plants in regular pots, which come in a variety of colors, shapes and materials. Terracotta, ceramic, wood, concrete, and resin pots can all work well. Air plants simply don’t need soil, and you can remove them at any time. For each air plant, choose a pot large enough for air to circulate properly or the base of the plant will rot.
Hanging and vertical gardens
Various hanging decorations are great ways to display your air plants. You can use something as simple as wire mesh and place your air plant in the hole. You can hang wooden or plastic picture frames and put the plant inside. Some plant pots come with brackets that you can hang.
Macrame holders add a beautiful look to your house. Finally, brass geometric holders are widely used. Also known as “Himmeli”, they come in many different designs that can add an aesthetic look to any room.
air plant frame
This method involves a frame with a mesh installed in it. You can put several air plants in the holes and create a live painting of nature. Make sure the mesh wires have a coating to prevent them from rusting. You can use spray paint to cover the mesh. You will likely need to secure the plants with wire or fishing line if you want to hang the frame on the wall.
Shellfish
Shells and sea urchins make cute homes for tiny air plants. They have small holes to put the plants in. You can also stick the air plants in sea urchins, turn them upside down, hang them with fishing lines, and you have cute floating jellyfish yourself!
wood
Combining air plants with wood can bring nature into your home. You can use wooden pots, frames or even natural pieces of driftwood. Either allow the plant to attach itself to the wood or drill holes in it and place or glue the air plants. You can also attach the air plants to plain wooden boards with wire, fishing line, glue or U-bolts and then hang them on the wall.
Other ideas to display air plants
Here are some other ideas to consider:
Cork Bark: Cutting cork bark is pretty easy, and you can create beautiful looks like frames, stands, or other containers with cork bark.
Wreath: Decorating wreaths with air plants is a popular option. You can attach them to wooden or plastic wreaths with wire or glue. Just make sure to water them adequately when it’s hot and bring them inside in the winter.
Your Existing Garden: Placing air plants among the other plants can make your garden more beautiful. They can have their pots or share pots with other plants.
Household Items: Place air plants in any household item and they will be happy as always! Arrange them in a basket, fishbowl, decorative bowl, vintage mugs or even glasses.
Tips for keeping air plants
You can keep air plants outside as long as you provide some shade to protect them from too much direct sunlight. If you live in areas where the temperature drops in winter, you must bring the air plants inside or they will rot. In the hot summer days you should water them more often.
Air plants have no use for their roots other than attaching themselves to objects. Unless you’ve chosen to anchor your plant to something, you can simply cut off the roots so they don’t get in the way of transplanting and watering.
Aside from copper fertilizer and copper wires, when handling air plants, stay away from pots, trays, or containers that contain copper, as these are highly allergic.
frequently asked Questions
Do air plants get bigger? Yes, air plants grow and get bigger over time. They grow slower when young but grow slightly faster when they mature. When you grow air plants from seeds, they take a long time to grow, but they grow stronger and healthier. How Long Can Air Plants Go Without Water? Depending on the species, air plants can go a week or two without water. Xeric strains can last longer because they come from drier climates. If you haven’t watered your air plant in a while, the best way to bathe it is by soaking it in water for 5-30 minutes.
What does an overwatered air plant look like? Yellowing leaves, mushy roots, darkening bases, and shedding of leaves are all signs of an overwatered air plant. Water less frequently, hang upside down after watering, and water in the morning to allow the sun to dry moisture during the day.
Conclusion
You have several options to decorate your living room, office or even bathroom with air plants. They are easy to care for and can adapt to different environments. They will be happy as long as you protect them from direct sunlight and low temperatures. Also, make sure you water them regularly and feed them the right fertilizer every few months.
Sources
What kind of sand do you use for air plants?
If you’re looking for a simple option, get some coarse aquarium or sandbox sand. Aquarium gravel or polished pebbles can bring some color to your terrarium. Use decorative moss or crushed, recycled glass to make your terrarium unique. Air plants don’t need soil.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Can you hot glue an air plant?
If you are in a pinch and want to attach something quickly, you can use hot glue, although this isn’t our preferred or recommended method. Hot glue isn’t waterproof and won’t last as long as other types of anchoring.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
If you’ve ever wondered the best way to mount or attach air plants, you’ve come to the right place! Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the easiest ways to mount your favorite air plants.
Cable:
We normally recommend wire mounting whenever possible. Just make sure you don’t use copper wire as copper is toxic to air plants and can kill them.
If you’re using wire, you can gently “loop” the wire through the lowest leaves of your plant and wrap it around the base a few times, then attach it to your wreath or whatever object you’re attaching it to.
This is the method we prefer as it makes it easier to remove the plants for watering or transplanting if needed than using glue.
Check out this beautiful hanging exhibition at Bok Tower Gardens. A bit of fishing line can create something beautiful inside or out!
fishing line:
This is an easy way to attach air plants to a wreath or driftwood, and it’s clear so it can’t be seen, so that’s a plus! Just use the same method as with the wire, just weave the fishing line through the leaves of the plant and then secure with a knot. You can also make beautiful floating arrangements with fishing wire by hanging air plants from the end of a long string and attaching them to the ceiling or a shelf.
Root:
Air plants do not use their roots to take up nutrients or water, and their primary purpose in the wild is to anchor plants in trees. You can read more about air plant roots in our All About Air Plant Roots article. You can do the same if you have some time. You can of course have your plant attached to a piece of driftwood, a wreath, tree, etc. (This may take a while so be patient!)
If you’re a little more impatient and don’t want to wait for the plant to take root naturally, you can also wire plants to an object by wrapping wire around the roots of the plant instead of threading wire through the leaves of the plant .
Glue:
We don’t typically recommend using glue to attach air plants to anything as it will make watering and caring for your plants more difficult. But it can be done! If you use glue you can use a plant safe glue like E6000 which is also waterproof. When gluing, be extra careful not to get glue on the sheets. Simply dab the glue onto the base of the plant and allow to dry to attach.
If you’re in a pinch and want to attach something quickly, you can use hot glue, although this isn’t our preferred or recommended method. Hot glue is not waterproof and doesn’t last as long as other types of anchors.
A few final tips:
What can I put an air plant in?
Air plants receive their nutrients from the surrounding air and moisture. So, it’s easy to find them a place. Put them in regular pots, terrariums, frames, seashells, urchins, baskets, and bowls. You can also hang or attach them to wood, cork bark, and wreaths using wires, fishing lines, or glue.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Air plants are very popular among plant lovers, especially those who want greenery in their homes but don’t have much time to tend to them. They require very little maintenance and come in a variety of shapes, colors and textures.
This post may contain affiliate links and I love all the products I promote.
Air plants get their nutrients from the surrounding air and moisture. So finding a place for them is easy. Place them in regular pots, terrariums, frames, shells, sea urchins, baskets and bowls. You can also hang or attach them to wood, cork bark, and wreaths with wires, fishing line, or glue.
Read on to find out how to care for and water your air plants depending on where you plan to put them.
What are air plants?
Tillandsia, or air plant, gets its name because it relies on air to survive. There are several types of air plants with different shapes, colors and textures. Their main similarity is that neither of them require the soil as their primary food source.
Air plants come from South America and Mexico. They filter the air as they grow, and when they are happy with their surroundings, they bloom flowers. Eventually the flowers will dry up, then you should cut them off. This way your beautiful air plant can grow more of it.
Some varieties, such as spider plant, have typical earth root systems. Still, even these species don’t rely on their roots to get all the nutrients they need.
A family of aerial plants called epiphytes use their roots only to attach themselves to other plants, branches, trunks, rocks, or cliffs. They get their food from the moisture in the ambient air or rainwater. They have developed pores on their leaves that can absorb food.
Types of Air Plants
There are many types of air plants to name, but to help you decide where to place your air plant, you should be able to tell these two types apart:
Xeric: Xeric air plants come from drier climates where they get less rain and more sunlight. They evolved to collect as much water as possible when it rains and store it for long periods of drought. You can tell them apart by looking at their downy and feathery leaves, which look like they’re coated in a layer of dust. They are mostly gray and white in color.
Mesic: These air plants originally come from shady, humid areas and rainforests. They get a lot of rain and don’t tolerate bright sunlight. Mesic varieties have shiny and smooth leaves, which means they offer less protection from the sun and tend to dry out.
Knowing your air plant type will help you better understand how to care for it and therefore where to place it in the home.
Things to consider when caring for air plants
light
All air plant varieties need some amount of daily sunlight or artificial light to thrive. Depending on the species, you can find a suitable place for them in your home.
Mesic varieties with green leaves can live happily in bright places and spots that don’t get much light. Xeric Air plants need to be in a lighter spot.
However, none of the air plant species tolerate long hours of direct sunlight. They grow on trees and rocks in dense jungle in the wild, where the tree leaves don’t let the sun hit them directly. Also, they cannot grow healthily in dimly lit rooms.
You can place both Mesic and Xeric types within 1 to 3 feet of east, west, or south facing windows. If you are using artificial lights for your plants, place them within 1 to 2 feet of the source.
Be wary of direct sunlight if your air plant is behind glass. The glass creates a magnifying effect that exposes your plant to extremely high temperatures.
temperature
Air plants come from warm areas. Regardless of whether the environment is dry or humid, you should not let the temperature drop below 45°F (7°C) or your plants will begin to rot and die. The best temperature range you can provide is between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (26°C). Don’t place your air plants near an air conditioner, fireplace, or near a window during the cold winters.
water
The way you water your air plant depends on where and how you display it. How much you should water each plant depends on its species and the humidity of the area you live in.
Water your plants in the morning to allow the water to evaporate from their leaves throughout the day. Both rainwater and tap water can work as long as they are at room temperature. Do not use commercial water softeners that substitute sodium chloride for calcium and magnesium ions on your air plants, as the salt will damage them.
fogging
If you can’t move your plants, your only option is to spray them with a spray bottle. All air plant species can be sprayed, but Xerics prefer it as they don’t need a lot of water.
Depending on the species, you need to spray the plant every two or three days. Spray more frequently in sunny weather or dry winters. Try to get the water on all the leaves and wet the plant thoroughly.
immersion
For mesic air plants with thick green leaves, submerging can be a good choice as they require more water. This approach works better than spraying on plants with dense or curly leaves because the water can reach all of their parts. You can either hold them under running water or submerge them in a bowl of water for a few seconds.
soaking
Some believe that soaking is not enough and you should soak the plant in water for five minutes to half an hour.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to let the air plant dry completely before transplanting. Leaving the plant wet for a long period of time will result in rot, especially when the temperature drops during the night and the humidity around the plant becomes cold. Don’t put your plant on top of moss when it’s still wet, as moss absorbs moisture and stays wet.
Shake the plant to remove excess water or lay it upside down on a towel. Pay special attention to plants with bulbous bases where water can pool and cause rot.
use of fertilizer
In order to have healthy and robust air plants, you need fertilizers. Water-soluble fertilizers for orchids, cacti, or bromeliads work well for all air plants. Air plants cannot use urea nitrogen, and these fertilizers do not contain it.
Remember to dilute the mixture with water according to the directions on the package. Either fill a spray bottle with the combination and mist your plant, or dip the air plant in the mixture.
You shouldn’t use too much fertilizer every round as it can burn your plant. It is enough to fertilize your plant every one to two months.
Stay away from fertilizers that contain copper, zinc, or boron, as they are all highly toxic to air plants.
remove pests
Unless you keep your air plants next to your other plants or in the garden, they are likely pest-free. Occasionally, mealybugs, scales, or insect mites can infest your plant and feed on its juices. You will see the leaves covered with a cotton-like substance or tiny insect eggs.
First try to flush the pests from the leaves. You can also soak the whole plant in water for a while until the pests suffocate. If that doesn’t work, dampen a cloth with some rubbing alcohol and wipe the leaves with it.
Using insecticides is also an option, but be careful with those that contain soap, as these can clog the pores of the plant.
What can you use to secure an air plant?
root
Air plants use their roots to anchor themselves to trees and rocks in the wild. You can do the same with any object of your choice, but it will take some time. Be patient and don’t move them until they attach to the object. Although you can cut off their roots if you want to detach them from the object in the future, it’s best to make sure you really want them there before growing the roots.
Cable
Using a wire is the most efficient way to attach an air plant to any object as you can easily remove and rearrange the plant. Make sure the wire does not contain copper as it is toxic to air plants. It’s best to use wires with some kind of coating to prevent rusting when watering your air plant.
Thread the wire through the lower leaves, then wrap it around the base of the plant before securing it in the ideal spot.
fishing line
You can use fishing line just like wires. They are invisible, so they add to the beauty of your decoration. Simply thread the line through the leaves and secure with a knot around the base.
Fishing line is also great for hanging the air plants from the ceiling or an object.
U Bolt
U-bolts can be an easy choice when you want to attach your air plant to a piece of wood. After installing them, simply place the air plant in the hole and remove it for watering whenever you like. Make sure the U-bolt is not copper. An iron U-bolt should have a coating to prevent rust from forming as it can also damage your air system.
This method is the most permanent option. You cannot move your plant if you stick it to the object you want.
The best glue for this project is flower glue because it won’t harm the plant and it’s also waterproof.
You can also use hot glue guns, but they won’t last long because of the constant pouring. Allow the glue to cool as much as possible before gluing the plant. Don’t get the glue on the leaves and just dab the glue on the base. The leaves will eventually fall off, and you’ll have to go through this process all over again.
Never use super glue as it can hurt air plants.
Now let’s discuss the best places to place and display air plants.
terrariums
Glass terrariums are a popular choice for housing air plants. They come in many shapes and sizes. Some have flat bottoms, making them perfect for shelves, tables, and stands.
You can decorate your terrarium in different ways. For example, fill the bottom with decorative sand or gravel and put in different sized air plants along with moss, shells, driftwood or rocks to create a natural landscape.
However, terrariums do not let much air through, which makes it difficult for the plants. After all, they are “air” plants and need to be grown outdoors. The terrariums with wider openings are more suitable.
pots and stands
You can simply place your air plants in regular pots, which come in a variety of colors, shapes and materials. Terracotta, ceramic, wood, concrete, and resin pots can all work well. Air plants simply don’t need soil, and you can remove them at any time. For each air plant, choose a pot large enough for air to circulate properly or the base of the plant will rot.
Hanging and vertical gardens
Various hanging decorations are great ways to display your air plants. You can use something as simple as wire mesh and place your air plant in the hole. You can hang wooden or plastic picture frames and put the plant inside. Some plant pots come with brackets that you can hang.
Macrame holders add a beautiful look to your house. Finally, brass geometric holders are widely used. Also known as “Himmeli”, they come in many different designs that can add an aesthetic look to any room.
air plant frame
This method involves a frame with a mesh installed in it. You can put several air plants in the holes and create a live painting of nature. Make sure the mesh wires have a coating to prevent them from rusting. You can use spray paint to cover the mesh. You will likely need to secure the plants with wire or fishing line if you want to hang the frame on the wall.
Shellfish
Shells and sea urchins make cute homes for tiny air plants. They have small holes to put the plants in. You can also stick the air plants in sea urchins, turn them upside down, hang them with fishing lines, and you have cute floating jellyfish yourself!
wood
Combining air plants with wood can bring nature into your home. You can use wooden pots, frames or even natural pieces of driftwood. Either allow the plant to attach itself to the wood or drill holes in it and place or glue the air plants. You can also attach the air plants to plain wooden boards with wire, fishing line, glue or U-bolts and then hang them on the wall.
Other ideas to display air plants
Here are some other ideas to consider:
Cork Bark: Cutting cork bark is pretty easy, and you can create beautiful looks like frames, stands, or other containers with cork bark.
Wreath: Decorating wreaths with air plants is a popular option. You can attach them to wooden or plastic wreaths with wire or glue. Just make sure to water them adequately when it’s hot and bring them inside in the winter.
Your Existing Garden: Placing air plants among the other plants can make your garden more beautiful. They can have their pots or share pots with other plants.
Household Items: Place air plants in any household item and they will be happy as always! Arrange them in a basket, fishbowl, decorative bowl, vintage mugs or even glasses.
Tips for keeping air plants
You can keep air plants outside as long as you provide some shade to protect them from too much direct sunlight. If you live in areas where the temperature drops in winter, you must bring the air plants inside or they will rot. In the hot summer days you should water them more often.
Air plants have no use for their roots other than attaching themselves to objects. Unless you’ve chosen to anchor your plant to something, you can simply cut off the roots so they don’t get in the way of transplanting and watering.
Aside from copper fertilizer and copper wires, when handling air plants, stay away from pots, trays, or containers that contain copper, as these are highly allergic.
frequently asked Questions
Do air plants get bigger? Yes, air plants grow and get bigger over time. They grow slower when young but grow slightly faster when they mature. When you grow air plants from seeds, they take a long time to grow, but they grow stronger and healthier. How Long Can Air Plants Go Without Water? Depending on the species, air plants can go a week or two without water. Xeric strains can last longer because they come from drier climates. If you haven’t watered your air plant in a while, the best way to bathe it is by soaking it in water for 5-30 minutes.
What does an overwatered air plant look like? Yellowing leaves, mushy roots, darkening bases, and shedding of leaves are all signs of an overwatered air plant. Water less frequently, hang upside down after watering, and water in the morning to allow the sun to dry moisture during the day.
Conclusion
You have several options to decorate your living room, office or even bathroom with air plants. They are easy to care for and can adapt to different environments. They will be happy as long as you protect them from direct sunlight and low temperatures. Also, make sure you water them regularly and feed them the right fertilizer every few months.
Sources
Can I grow a plant in a mason jar?
Drought-friendly herbs like lavender, sage, and thyme are recommended for growing in mason jars in case of mis-watering, but you can grow virtually any herb in a mason jar, so long as you’re not starting them off from seeds.
Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
Typically mason jars have only one entrance and this is at the mouth of the jar. This means whatever plant you choose to grow in a mason jar, there is no need to drain water. This is because after water is added, excess water has no escape other than being sucked up by the plant or evaporating into the air. That’s why you need to know firsthand what you can grow in a Mason Jar!
1. Herbs
Herbs are probably the most common and perhaps the easiest plants to grow in a mason jar. However, growing herb seeds in mason jars is not ideal. This is because the seed starting process is very different from the general growth maintenance process and mason jars are not suitable for seed starting. Drought-friendly herbs like lavender, sage, and thyme are recommended for growing in mason jars with improper watering, but you can grow virtually any herb in a mason jar as long as you don’t grow it from seed.
You should also ensure that the mason jars you use have enough room for root growth, as herb roots tend to grow slightly larger than their top growth. If you’re using a smaller jar, transfer them to larger ones when they’ve grown enough. Another trick to avoid miswatering is to fill the bottom of the jar with rocks or pottery shards before adding the soil. Your decision!
These are the best-tolerated herbs to grow in a Mason jar:
2. Succulents
Succulents are ideal for terrarium planting as they require little maintenance or supervision. You can create a terrarium in a single jar or in a variety of jars. Terrariums are great because they require very little supervision and maintenance.
You can spice up your terrarium with a variety of different types of succulents. Fill your terrarium with pebbles or rocks at the bottom, then add your potting soil and plants. Add a few drops of water and seal the mason jar.
3. Cacti
Cacti can also be grown in mason jars as they too require little maintenance. You can also add them to terrariums or just have them alone in a single mason jar. These look fantastic around the house and can last for years.
Mason jar ideas for the garden
storage
Use your mason jars in the garden as a storage place for your potting soil or garden seeds. If you store your seeds in mason jars, make sure you keep the jar in a cool, dry, dark place. You can store your mason jar full of soil in your standard garden storage area.
canning your harvest
Mason jars are also great for canning your harvest as they can be sealed and stored for future use. Using mason jars to can your harvest can extend their shelf life rather than letting them rot shortly after harvest.
Mason jars have been around for a long time and are extremely versatile. Don’t let these options limit your use of mason jars because you can use them for all sorts of things. We love them around the house and garden!
【 Bonart｜Air Plant Terrarium DIY Kit 】
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Air Plant Terrariums
Earn 3 free Caput Medusae air plants
The air plant Tillandsia caput medusae is one of our favorites! It has such unique shapes that over time the leaves grow like a “snake”. This air plant is a great strain for beginners as it is quite hardy and requires minimal care.
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Air Plant Terrarium Kits – The Art of Succulents
air plants
Air plants are beautiful and unusual plants that do not require soil to grow. They look fantastic in our terrarium kits and are very easy to care for.
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