For those challenged to have a “green thumb”, a plant that appears to live magically on air without any soil or obvious root system seems a perfect houseplant. Care of air plants (Tillandsia) is based upon whether they are Xeric or Mesic in origin.
Air plant centerpiece
Xeric air plants are greyer and fuzzier. Their leaves have larger numbers of trichomes, resulting in a gray or fuzzy appearance. Often their leaves are wider. Mesic air plants have leaves that are are greener and smoother. Those classified as Xeric require very bright light to a few hours of direct morning sun.
To water them, pass them under a spigot for several seconds every other week or so, thoroughly soaking the leaves with tepid water. Xeric plants can also be submerged in water for a minute or so every other week. If large amounts of water remain in the evening, it will interfere with gas exchange as the stomates begin to open. Mesic Air Plants benefit from more filtered light and from a room humidifier or misting during winter in addition to a 15 minute ‘bath’ every 2–3 weeks. The warmer the room, the more frequent the ‘baths.’
Regardless of Xeric or Mesic origins, plants will benefit from a 25% dilute application of bromeliad or orchid fertilizer in their ‘bath water’ once a month during active growth period of April through September.
Read more detail information about Air Plants at these links: