Air plants (also Tillandsia mentioned) are the latest trend in plantation land and not without reason. This small, fascinating houseplants do not need soil to survive, but get their moisture and nutrition directly from the air. This makes them ideal for people who do not always have green fingers have, but still want to enjoy a piece of greenery in your home. Read on quickly and discover everything you need to know about air plants!
What are air plants?
Air plants are epiphytes, which means that in nature they grow on other plants or surfaces, without parasitizing them. They use their leaves to absorb water and nutrients from the air, which makes them unique in the houseplants community. These plants can be placed in all sorts of places in your home: on your desk, on the ceiling, or even on a piece of wood or in a glass ball.
Why air plants?
Air plants are ideal for people who have little time for plant care, but they still add a lot to your interior green. They are small, compact and can fit almost anywhere. Plus, they don't require soil, making them perfect for the minimalist interior style or for places where you don't want potting soil. Air plants fit perfectly with a minimalist living design where simplicity and functionality are central.
Air plants come in all shapes and sizes – from small, airy ones to larger ones houseplants that are a real eye-catcher. Most are also very decorative, with their unique, spiral or lily-like leaves.
How do you care for air plants?
Air plants are surprisingly easy to care for, but they do have some specific needs. Here are the most important tips:
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To water
Although air plants do not need soil, they do need to be watered regularly. You can do this by placing them in a container of water, or by spraying them gently with a plant sprayer. Give them a good watering at least once a week, but in the summer, when it is warmer and drier, you can moisten them more often. Always let them drain well after watering, so that they do not remain in water, which can lead to rot. -
Sunlight
Air plants like bright, indirect light. Place them where they will get a few hours of light each day, but avoid direct sunlight as this can burn their leaves. A north-facing window or a bright spot in your home is ideal. -
Diet
Air plants need some extra nutrition every now and then. You can use special fertilizer for air plants buy, or a diluted, liquid houseplant food use. You can do this once a month, especially during the growing periods in spring and summer. -
Humidity
Because air plants get their moisture from the air, they like a higher humidity. If the air in your home is very dry, for example due to heating in the winter, you can consider placing a humidifier in the room, or spraying your plants regularly with a fine mist. -
Rest period
In the winter months we have air plants often need less water and food, because they go into dormancy. Water them less often and let them dry well between waterings.
Where do you put air plants?
Because air plants don't need soil, you can incorporate them into your home in all sorts of creative ways. Here are a few ideas:
- In a crystal ball: Put your air plant in a glass ball or terrarium for an elegant look.
- On wood: Confirm your air plant with a bit of string or a staple on a piece of branch or a wooden plank for a rustic look.
- In the bathroom: Because air plants like higher humidity, they are perfect for the bathroom. For example, place them on a shelf or hang them on a nice string.
- In a macramé pendant: Hang you air plant in a beautiful macrame plant hanger for a boho atmosphere.
Air plants as decoration
Air plants are not only easy to care for, but also incredibly decorative. Their unique shapes and the ability to style them in so many different ways make them a perfect addition to your interior greenWhether you use them in a glass ball, in a hanging basket or as part of an elegant wall decoration, air plants always provide a fresh and lively look in your home.
Problems with air plants
Although air plants relatively easy, they can still suffer from some problems. If your plant looks weak or the leaves are wilting, it may be that they are not getting enough water or that they are in a climate that is too dry or too warm. Check that you are watering them regularly and that they are in the right place in terms of light and temperature.
Finally: The easy green feeling
Air plants are the perfect plant for beginners or anyone who is products with little maintenance a green touch. With their minimalist care and stylish appearance they fit almost anywhere in your home. Put them in a nice place, give them regular water and a little love, and you will see how they brighten up your home.
