How to Care for the House Plant Bromeliad

Bromeliads are tropical plants from Brazil.

The Bromeliad family includes the Spanish moss, pineapple plant and flowering landscape varieties grown in containers as houseplants. In the home environment, bromeliads reach a height that varies from just 1 inch to 3 feet. An interesting feature of the bromeliad houseplant is that it dies after it flowers, but with two positive traits. The flowers last for months and so do the plants. Also, before their demise, bromeliads produce an offshoot you can set in the soil to get the life cycle started again.

Things You'll Need

• Light potting mix
• Tepid water
• Spray bottle
• Liquid fertilizer

Instructions

1. Place bromeliads in bright light but away from direct sun, close to a window, for instance. Yellowing foliage is a sign the light is too intense. A wilting plant indicates it isn't getting enough light.

2. Plant bromeliads in light potting mix that allows for fast drainage. Mixes containing peat moss and perlite are adequate options.

3. Water your potted bromeliad with tepid water from the faucet when the soil surface feels dry. In addition, keep the leaf cup filled with water, if you have a bromeliad variety that has a leaf cup. Renew the water frequently by turning the plant upside down to let the water out. When you fill the cup, don't let water get on the soil, unless it's time to water the plant again.

4. Spray the foliage with water every day, as bromeliads absorb moisture through their leaves.

5. Raise your bromeliad in a room that stays at a constant 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't fertilize indoor bromeliads. Apply liquid fertilizer at half strength only if the plants stop thriving in the growing season.

References

• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Bromeliads
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Bromeliads at a Glance