Tillandsia “Air plant” with gold holder

Air plants

If you're looking to start growing house plants or adding a unique one to your collection, try an airplant. Since they do not require soil to grow, indoor air plants for beginners can be satisfying and easy; they are known for being low-maintenance and fun to display around your home. While the term “air plant” is most commonly associated with plants in the Tillandsia genus, there are actually hundreds of different types of air plants that span multiple different plant families. Learn how to keep these tropical plants happy indoors.

What Is an Air Plant?

The term “air plant” is used to refer to plants that do not require soil to survive, but instead grow on top of other plants, such as trees, without being parasitic. Rather than getting their nutrients from the soil, air plants derive their nutrients from the air, water, and debris around them. The term “air plant” is synonymous with the Greek term “epiphyte,” which is translated to “on top of plant” (epi = on top of; phyte = plant).

There are a few general rules when it comes to air plant care that can be followed for any type.

• Give them bright indirect light. Avoid lengthy periods of direct light as it will scorch their leaves.
• Water, mist, or soak regularly. The type of air plant will determine which irrigation method is best.
• Make sure your air plant is in a warm and humid environment.
• Do not plant them in soil under any conditions.

Since air plants are commonly found growing on trees and other large plants below the forest canopy, they are accustomed to receiving bright to medium indirect light. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can easily burn their delicate leaves.

Air plants require regular watering to thrive indoors. However, since these plants grow without soil, watering air plants can look a little bit different than watering your other houseplants. Most air plants are successfully watered using a soaking method, where the plant is left to soak in a bowl of distilled water for 20 to 40 minutes every 1 to 2 weeks. However, some air plants prefer regular misting, or a quick dunk versus a longer soak. Researching the specific type of air plant that you have will help to determine the best watering method and how often to water your air plant.