How to Water Mounted Air Plants

Air plants, or Tillandsia, are unique houseplants that are typically easy to care for. One of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to the care of these plants is their watering schedule. Unlike other plants, air plants don't need to be potted in soil and can be mounted on various surfaces. But how do you water mounted air plants?

Soaking Method

The most common and recommended method of watering mounted air plants is the soaking method. To do this, you'll need to remove your air plants from their mount and place them in a container that's large enough to submerge them entirely in water. You can use any container that's big enough and deep enough to accommodate your air plants.

Fill the container with room temperature water and place your air plants in the water. Be sure to completely submerge them so that they can absorb as much water as possible. Allow the plants to soak for about 20-30 minutes.

After the allotted time, remove your air plants from the container and gently shake them to remove any excess water. You can also place your air plants upside down on a towel or paper towel to allow any remaining water to drip off.

Mist Spray Method

Another method of watering mounted air plants is the mist spray method. This method is suitable for small or medium-sized air plants that are mounted on surfaces like driftwood or cork bark.

To use this method, all you need is a spray bottle filled with room temperature water. Spray your air plants with a light mist of water once or twice a week, depending on the humidity of your home.

Factors to Consider

When deciding how to water your mounted air plants, there are a few factors to keep in mind. The first is the humidity level in your home. If you live in a dry climate, you may need to water your air plants more frequently than if you live in a more humid area.

Another factor is the size of your air plants. Smaller air plants can be watered more frequently than larger ones. Lastly, the type of mount your air plant is attached to can impact its watering needs. If your air plant is attached to a material that doesn't absorb water, such as plastic, you may need to water it more frequently than if it was attached to something like cork bark.

Conclusion

In summary, the two most common methods of watering mounted air plants are the soaking method and the mist spray method. The soaking method is suitable for larger air plants mounted on surfaces that can absorb water, while the mist spray method is adequate for small to medium-sized air plants attached to less absorbent materials. Regardless of the method you choose, always ensure that your air plants have proper drainage and that they're not sitting in water for an extended period. With proper watering and care, your mounted air plants can thrive and make beautiful additions to your home decor.