Airplantation

As long as you get your light and watering right you will have no trouble getting your air plants to grow, flower, pup and strive. Tillandsias need bright light..... They enjoy some morning light but will not survive direct hot afternoon sun. So put them in an easterly facing window or hang them outside under a tree. They like to be soaked under water overnight, once per week (6-8 hours). Make sure to bring them inside if outdoor temperatures go below 40 degrees F. Check out our 'Light & Watering' video

Tillandsias flower and then produce PUPS usually once per year. Mostly you will get one or two pups but if your conditions are good and you are very lucky you can get many more. Everyone wants to know when and how to remove the pups. Don't be too quick to separate them from the mother plant. If you wait until they are at least 1/2 the size of the mom (3/4 size is even better) you should have no trouble. That way they have a bigger leaf surface area from which to get their moisture and nutrients and there is a clearer divide to twist the pup off. Or if you are like me, leave them alone to grow into big beautiful clumps. Check out our 'PUPS' video

When it comes to displaying your air plants you are only restricted by your own imagination. You can use a martini or wine glass, tea cups, candlesticks, figurines, driftwood, shells, anything that is nontoxic and will let the water drain out. Here we have used a resin figurine glued onto a hand shaped slate tile. The plants are glued on using 'Liquid Nails' construction glue (available at most hardware stores), the glue is covered with sheet moss. Don't forget to make sure that you are placing your plants in bright indirect light and remember to water them well and consistently. Check out our 'Light & Watering' and 'Display Ideas' videos