How to Plant Bromeliads

Bromeliads thrive in filtered sunlight and temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bromeliads are the perfect choice if you are looking for something unusual to add to your houseplant collection. The leaves of the bromeliad plant are available in various shades, including green, red, orange and yellow. Some types develop a flower-like structure in the center of the foliage, known as an inflorescence, that lasts for many weeks. Bromeliads should be planted in a growing mixture that drains well and is light enough to allow air to circulate around the roots. They can also be planted outdoors in regions with tropical, frost-free climates.

Things You'll Need

• Light-colored plastic growing container
• Potting soil
• Peat moss
• Coarse sand
• Organic compost

Instructions

Planting Bromeliads in Containers

1. Select a light-colored, plastic growing container large enough to comfortably hold the bromeliad's roots. The container should have several holes in the bottom to prevent over-watering.

2. Fill the container with equal parts potting soil, peat moss and coarse sand.

3. Place the roots of the bromeliad into the growing mixture at the level they were planted before. Cover the roots well and pat down lightly.

4. Water until the growing mixture is slightly moist.

5. Move the container to a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight most of the day.

6. Continue to water whenever the growing mixture feels completely dry. Some types of bromeliad have a cup-like structure known as a tank. If this is the case with your plant, make sure the tank is always filled with water.

Planting Bromeliads in the Landscape

1. Clear the planting location of all vegetation and rocks.

2. Dig a planting hole that is 4 to 5 inches wider and the same depth as the bromeliad's roots.

3. Mix 3 to 4 inches of organic compost with the loose soil.

4. Place the roots of the bromeliad into the planting hole and backfill with the amended soil. Tamp down firmly to settle the soil around the roots.

5. Water until the soil is slightly moist all the way down to the roots. Continue to add moisture only when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil feel dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Mist lightly each day to increase the humidity around the plant.

• Feed the plants once each month with liquid fertilizer applied at half the recommended strength.

• Bromeliads come in many sizes, from 1 inch to 3 feet.

References

• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Bromeliads
• Clemson University Cooperative Extension: Bromeliads
• Bromeliad Society International: Growing Bromeliads