bromeliads

One of the easiest plants to care for is the bromeliad, which creates the most spectacular of all house plant displays. One of the most popular of the bromeliads is Aechmea Fasciata (A. Rhodocyanea) shown in the photograph above. The method of watering this plant is most unusual in that you water into the central rosette rather than into the compost. Then there is the unusual flowering habit - as the flower head opens, the parent rosette begins to die, although it may survive for a further year or two. So propagation after flowering is necessary if you wish to preserve your collection.

The native home of the bromeliads is the American jungle where they live among orchids in the trees or on the forest floor. These plants thrive well indoors or outdoors in balmy climates away from direct sunlight. They should be kept in small pots with drainage holes, and a peat-based compost. Remember that they do have a tiny root system, so over-potting or over-watering can be fatal, just as with any other indoor plant.

Bromeliad Facts

Temperature: High temperatures (above 75 degrees) may be required to bring plants into flower, but average warmth (minimum 50 degrees) is satisfactory for foliage types or plants in flower.

Light: Most bromeliads require a brightly-lit spot away from direct sunlight. Pineapple and the Earth Stars variety will thrive in full sun.

Water: Never overwater, and ensure that there is a good drainage. Keep the 'vase' filled with water - use rainwater in hard water areas. Empty and refill 'vase' every 1-2 months. Water the compost only when it dries out. With non-vase varieties keep the compost moist, but never wet.

Air Humidity: Mist leaves in summer. Feeding through the leaves is the natural method of nutrition, so occasionally use dilute plant food such as Miracle Gro instead of water in the sprayer.

Repotting: Rarely, if ever, necessary.

Propagation: Offsets appear at the base of the plant. When the offset is several months old remove it with some roots attached and plant shallowly in compost. Keep warm until established.

The above information and much more can be found in the book The House Plant Expert, a great resource for caring for your indoor plants.