Bromeliad tropical houseplant
Bromeliad tropical houseplant

How to Care for Bromeliad

Bromeliaceae

ABOUT BROMELIAD

Popular varieties:

  • Guzmania (Epiphytic)
  • Neoregelia spp. (Epiphytic)
  • Vriesea (Terrestrial)
  • Tillandsia Cyanea (Terrestrial)

Bromeliads have colorful, long-lasting blooms that contrast beautifully against their strappy green leaves. This bold houseplant works especially well in contemporary, modern, and tropical décor styles.

Since they release oxygen and absorb toxins at night, consider adding one to your bedroom for a restful night’s sleep.

They are either terrestrial or epiphytic in their natural habitat. Terrestrial require soil like other plants however Epiphytic do not.

Bromeliad tropical houseplant

WATERING

When and how should I water my Bromeliad?

 

Water Epiphytic bromeliads by keeping the cup-like structure at the center of the flower rosette full. Never water the soil directly.

Water the soil of terrestrial varieties when dry to the touch.

Never mist your foliage. Misting leaves causes fungal issues and disease. The only plants that are okay to mist are ferns and carnivorous plants.

LIGHT NEEDS

Grow best in medium or bright indirect light.

Illustration of a living room with labeled plants, including a Bird of Paradise. A chair, window, and table with plants (numbers 1 and 2) are in the center. A small cabinet with plant number 3 is to the right. Icons below indicate light levels: high, medium, and low.

GROWTH

Can grow 1-3 ft. tall indoors.

SOIL NEEDS

Terrestrial species prefers a slightly moist but well-drained soil mix.

TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY

Although bromeliads prefer temperatures of 70-90 degrees, they tolerate the average temperature and humidity of most homes.

FERTILIZING

Trim off the flower spike after it dies. Continue to care for the plant, as it will eventually produce “pups,” which are offsets of the original plant. Once a “pup” reaches 1/3 to 1/2 of the mother plant, it can safely be removed and planted in its own pot if you choose.

Fertilizing is not necessary unless you are trying to get your pups to bloom. To help it grow optimally and evenly, occasionally dust the leaves, and rotate the pot by a ¼ turn once a month.

IS THE BROMELIAD PET SAFE?

According to the ASPCA, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the tips begin to turn brown, they may be receiving too much sun, causing sun scorch.

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The Benefits of Houseplants

(…and why we love them)

A lush fern plant with long, slim fronds is displayed in a sleek white, modern pot, resembling the elegance youd seek when learning how to care for African violets. The plant takes center stage against a plain white background.

They purify & clean the air

A small tree with a thick trunk and glossy green Bird of Paradise leaves in a white geometric-patterned pot, surrounded by smooth, round stones.

Boost your mood, reducing stress & anxiety

A Bird of Paradise with lush green, long, pointed leaves sits elegantly in a white pot against a pristine white background.

Help you sleep better

A vibrant green fiddle leaf fig plant sits elegantly in a textured white pot against a plain white background, reminiscent of minimalistic spaces. Though different from cacti, its care brings a serene beauty to any room.

Act as natural humidifiers

A potted monstera plant with several large, glossy green leaves featuring natural holes and splits stands proudly in a plain black pot against a white background. Its exotic charm might remind one of a Bird of Paradise, adding an elegant touch to any space.

Enhance cognitive skills

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