Tillandsias

An important member of the bromeliad family of plants are the tillandsias or air plants. These silvery gray and green plants are able to survive naturally without soil; they pull water and nutrients from the air. Horticulturist Jim Henrich discusses these unusual plants, while host Michele Driscoll Alioto shows how to use tillandsias in dish gardens and mini tablescapes. These versatile low-maintenance plants can also be mounted on pieces of driftwood or tree bark with hot glue or microfilament, or placed inside seashells or glued on magnets for display.

General care tips:

• Tillandsias require bright indirect light to thrive.
• Mist tillandsias two to three times a week to make sure they receive adequate moisture .
• Once a month, use a weak (one-quarter strength) solution of liquid fertilizer when misting.
• Tillandsias like good air circulation. Use a fan or open a window now and then to ensure that this requirement is met.
• Very hardy, tillandsias can grow in temperatures from 32 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Resources
tillandsia plants
California Cactus Center
Website: www.cactuscenter.com
Also in this Episode

Inside Dirt : Episode ISD-124
•	Caudiciform Bonsai
•	Crazy for Caudiciforms
•	Tillandsias
•	Uses for Mint