Do You Water Air Plant Cactus?

When it comes to caring for air plant cactus, one of the most common questions is how to properly water them. As the name implies, air plants typically grow without soil and can absorb nutrients and moisture from the air around them.

Understanding Air Plant Cactus

Air plant cactus, also known as Epiphyllum, is a type of cactus that doesn't grow in soil like most other plants. Instead, it grows on other plants or objects, using its roots to anchor itself in place. Because it doesn't have access to soil for nutrients, air plant cactus has adapted to absorb water and nutrients from the air around it using specialized leaves known as trichomes.

How to Water Air Plant Cactus

Although air plant cactus can survive without soil, it still needs water to thrive. The best way to water air plant cactus is by misting it with a spray bottle. This mimics the humid environment in which air plant cactus would naturally thrive.

You can also soak your air plant cactus in water for about 15-30 minutes once a week. Make sure to use room temperature water, as cold or hot water can shock the plant. After soaking, allow the plant to dry out completely before placing it back in its container or on its chosen surface. This helps prevent rot from setting in.

Other Care Tips for Air Plant Cactus

In addition to proper watering, there are a few other things you can do to ensure your air plant cactus stays healthy:

Make sure it gets plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves.

Provide good air circulation to prevent mold and mildew from growing on the plant.

Feed it with a liquid fertilizer diluted in water once a month during the growing season.

Conclusion

While air plant cactus may seem like an unusual plant, it is relatively easy to care for once you understand its unique needs. With proper watering, sunlight, and care, your air plant cactus can thrive and add a unique touch to your home or office.