How does the water supply work?
Since a Tillandsia usneoides has no noteworthy roots, it is usually placed on a base attached or cultivated floating freely. The substrateless attitude requires a modified supply of water. That is how it goes:
- Spray with water once a day
- Moisten the entire plant with a fine mist
- Do not spray in direct sunlight
- Alternatively, immerse in water at room temperature once a week
also read
- Is Tillandsia cyanea poisonous?
- Caring for Tillandsia cyanea correctly - this is how it works
- Separate and care for Tillandsia cyanea Kindel - this is how it works
Please only use soft water with a low lime content. Collected rainwater is perfect for simulating natural conditions.
Should a Tillandsia usneoides be fertilized?
The Tillandsia usneoides absorbs nutrients through its tiny leaves. Therefore, add a liquid fertilizer to the irrigation or immersion water every week during the summer growth phase. In winter, the fertilization intervals are extended to 4 to 6 weeks. A commercial plant fertilizer is just as suitable for this purpose as a special fertilizer for bromeliads.
Does cutting back count as part of the care program?
The epiphytic Tillandsia usneoides does not know a form and preservation cut in the classical sense. However, it may be necessary to remove dead plant parts in order to make room for a fresh shoot. Therefore, clear the Bromeliad at the end of winter time. Please use an extra sharp, clean knife. Take the withered shoot in one hand, push it outwards and cut it off.
Tips
Tillandsia usneoides enters into a congenial partnership with free-hanging, substrateless Vanda orchids. The dense network of shoots and leaves is integrated into the aerial roots of the orchids. This is how the Tillandsia species as a natural curtain that the Vanda Protected from blazing sun and drought.
