At first glance, growing bromeliads seems like a difficult task. However, these tropical looking plants they are easy to plant, require little maintenance and are hardy to different climatic and environmental conditions.
scientific name Bromeliads generate, It is an epiphyte that brings striking colors to the interior garden. It is known for its beautiful foliage, with leaves varying in shades of red, green, orange, purple and yellow.
As such, it requires no soil to grow. It can cling to trees or other objects; in the same way it is possible to plant it in shallow soils. What care does it require? Where should you plant them? All the details below.
Main characteristics of bromeliads
Bromeliads are perennial plants that belong to the Bromeliad family. They are native to West Africa but are currently distributed in North America, South America and Central America. It is estimated that there are about two thousand species, although the genera Guzmania, Neoregelia and Vriesea are the best known.
As pointed out by one publication in Ecology and EvolutionThese plants are slow growing and they tend to prefer habitats with high rainfall and humidity. They take about three years to mature and flower, although some species take longer.
Although they are epiphytes, as they usually grow on the bark of trees in jungle areas, they are also grown for ornamental purposes. They are usually small in size, although they can measure up to a meter in height.
They have lanceolate leaves whose nuances vary according to the genus. Some have green colors, but others range from pink to purple and gray. Moreover, its flowers have intense and lively colours, which can vary from red to fuchsia, orange or pink.
types of bromeliads
As we have mentioned, there are more than two thousand species of bromeliads. Most are epiphytes and are found in their native ranges, i.e. the tropical regions of the Americas. Anyway, there are common species that can be grown in gardens. The most popular are the following:
- Guzmania: includes the most common speciesas the G. lingulata, G.zahniig. bloody guzmania AND G. monostachy. They usually have long, flat leaves that are bright green in color. Its flowers can appear bright red, yellow, orange, pink or purple, depending on the species.
- Neoregelia: it’s a genus bromeliad very varied. They are particularly used as indoor plants, as their leaves are quite showy, with colors ranging from pink to purple.
- Vriesee: it is characterized by having variegated foliage and feather-like flowers. comprehends popular species as the V. splendens and the hybrid See ‘Fireworks’.
- Comfortable pineapple: and he type which includes the common pineapple. It has spider-web leaves and a flower spike on which miniature pineapples grow.
Care and recommendations for growing bromeliads
The first thing to keep in mind when growing bromeliads is that They don’t require thick or too deep soil, on the contrary. In gardening, mixtures of bark, moss or other organic materials are often used. Also, a shallow dish is the best option.
Of course, you have to create some Specific conditions for the plant to mature and flower. This can be determined by light, temperature, humidity and food. In general they do not require much maintenance and are well suited to tropical, warm and temperate climates.
Light
When growing bromeliads, keep in mind that you need to provide them with bright, indirect light, especially if they have stiff, hard leaves. If they are varieties with soft leaves and no thorns, the light levels should be a little lower.
Flooring
When it comes to growing bromeliads indoors, the ideal soil is usually two-thirds peat-based soil and one-third sand. This allows you to retain moisture, but also ensure its drainage. Other blends are charcoal, musks and orchid musks.
Waterfall
One of the reasons this plant is considered hardy is because it can handle drought conditions. Although its natural environment is humid, it does not require much watering. In fact, in their growing stage they should be watered sparingly on a weekly basis. In winter, watering should be reduced.
The root of the plant is sensitive to rot, so there should be no standing water. The key is to wait until the soil surface is dry to the touch before watering again. On the other hand, It is convenient to spray the leaves with the help of an atomizer.
temperature and humidity
Often, bromeliads prefer temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They usually cannot withstand too cold temperatures, so they require protection in winter.
While some are resistant to environments as low as 20°F, they should not be exposed to environments below 40°F. The recommended humidity for its growth is between 40 and 50%.
Fertilizer
One of the great benefits of growing bromeliads is that they usually require no fertilizer. Often, the plant develops well with just watering. However, liquid fertilizer can be applied half diluted in the growth phase. If the plant is about to flower, using these products can be counterproductive.
outdoor cultivation
Some special considerations need to be made if you want to grow bromeliads outdoors. It’s best to opt for shallow pots, because in winter it’s best to move them inside to avoid rotting.
Also, you can grow them under a shady tree or in any plant that manages to avoid direct contact with sunlight. Too much light tends to burn the leaves. The watering issue should not be ignored, as high humidity will deteriorate the plant. Make sure there is good drainage.
parasites
Bromeliads are unlikely to be attacked by any pests. Most of the time the disease develops from excessive watering or because they are excessively exposed to direct sunlight.
Spread
The usual way to propagate bromeliads is from their buds. Its cultivation is usually more difficult from seed. In any case, if you choose the latter option, it is recommended to do it during the winter.
What is there to remember about growing bromeliads?
Because of their showy, colorful flowers, bromeliads are often preferred as house or garden plants. Its growth is slow and it can take about three years before it flowers. Once they flower, the mother plant usually dies. However, it grows back from its buds.
In general, little care is needed to keep it in top condition. Moderate watering and indirect light are key. Also, they should be planted in small pots with a good drainage system that can be brought indoors during the winter. Do you dare to cultivate it?
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