How to Tell Your Air Plant Needs Water

As one of the easiest houseplants to maintain, air plants have gained a lot of popularity in recent years. Also called Tillandsia, air plants require little care, but like all living things, they need water to survive. To maintain the beauty and health of your air plant, you need to know when they need water. In this article, we'll guide you on how to tell when your air plant needs water.

Check the Thirsty Signals

One of the best ways to figure out if your air plant needs water is to study its thirsty signals. These signals can include dry or scorched leaves, curled leaves, or wilting. If you see any of these signs, it's an indication that your air plant is craving a drink. The easiest way to give it a drink is to submerge it under water for at least an hour. Make sure that you rinse your air plant under running water before you dip it, and avoid using hard water or saltwater, which can harm it.

Consider the Environment

Another factor that can tell you if your air plant needs watering is the environment it's in. Air plants thrive in humid environments, and if the air in your house is dry, your air plant will need more water. Some environments are naturally humid, like bathrooms and kitchens, and in these rooms, you don't need to submerge your air plant as often as you would in a dry room. Dusty environments can also cause your air plant to require more frequent watering as dust can clog the plant's pores and make it difficult for it to breathe.

Study the Plant's Color

Watching the color of your air plant is another way to know when it needs watering. Healthy air plants have bright green leaves that can turn into shades of red, pink, and purple when they have sufficient water. However, when your air plant lacks water, its leaves will turn pale green or even gray, and they will become hard to the touch. If you notice that your air plant is losing its bright green color, it's a sign that you should give it a good soak in water.

Conclusion

Air plants are unique and beautiful plants that can add a lot of character to your room. However, they require some care, including watering. By paying attention to your air plant's environment, color, and signals, you can easily tell when it needs watering. Although air plants are low maintenance, make sure that you give them the attention they deserve to keep them healthy and thriving.