Air plant care: watering, light and repotting
Also called tillandsia ionantha · Tillandsia · Bromeliaceae family
10 d in winter
How often to water the air plant?
Allow about 7 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 10 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
It lives without soil. “Watering” means soaking it for 20 minutes in soft water, then letting it dry upside down.
Misting every 3 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The air plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
No repotting: this plant lives without soil. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: 2–12 in (5–30 cm).
Common problems
Dry tips
Cause: Not enough water. What to do: Soak it more often and mist between soaks.
Brown, soft base
Cause: Water left in the centre. What to do: Shake it and let it dry upside down after every soak.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the air plant?
About every 7 days in spring and summer, and every 10 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the air plant?
The air plant likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the air plant?
Yes, misting every 3 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
Cats, dogs, children: is the air plant safe?
No toxicity is known, but no veterinary source has confirmed it: to be safe, keep the plant out of reach of pets and young children.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the air plant forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.