The Rooted Plant Shop
Air plant with gold holder
Air plant with gold holder
Couldn't load pickup availability
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.
Share

Let customers speak for us
from 447 reviewsI was surprised with a text from Mel, letting me know my options for selecting my first plant and asking my input about what plant I wanted. I was able to text back what I thought and just a couple days later, a beautiful black velvet Alocasia arrived, thoughtfully wrapped, all snug with a warming pouch. What a fun idea and well executed. I certainly look forward to next month! Thanks for being so informative, as well.
I purchased two varieties of synonyms from the shop. They arrived well-packed and literally not one blemish! It was shocking in the best way. Highly recommend this shop!
I am not one to respond to many emails or surveys but this book resonated with me in a special way today.
Long story short we have been thru a lot of trauma in the last 5 years. Loss in a hurricane, cancer and other surgeries between my husband and I.
A little personal, but relevant, we got in a tiff today because of how many plants I have acquired. I needed his help because I had surgery on Weds. Admittedly I have spent a lot on plants in the last 2 years but your book rang so true for me when you explained how plants support is by creating a calming environment. That whole paragraph spoke volumes to me as to why they are so important to me and my healing journey. Yes I most likely need to slow down in my purchases but even when it’s a chore to water and care for them by the time I am finished there is so much joy and accomplishment. Thank you for helping me make that connection. It helped me in a moment when I needed that clarity and how they impact my every day life.
This book is very well written and the illustration is stunning. I can’t wait to get the next volume! So much appreciated. Thank you
The plant arrived safely and packaged well. She’s perked up nicely in her new home. Thanks for such a great product!
I love this shop and all the knowledge I have gained from Mel! My plants are beautiful that come they’re very well cared for and loved!
Fantastic resource for people new to owning house plants. Very readable and a great basis for the next books to build on.
As always this shop is customer first. Wonderful plant and great shipping
I appreciate all the help you have given to me on transplanting my newly inherited orchids
Thanks so very much
She’s gorgeous!! Arrived quickly and safely!! Adjusted well to her new home immediately!! She is doing wonderfully!! This is definitely my new go to plant shop!! Love Mel and her knowledge and thankful for her passing it along!!!
My first monthly subscription arrived today in perfect shape. Beautifully packaged and a wonderful choice for my collection
My pkg of little pretty babies came all warm and cozy. I live in NYC and they made it safely and secured. Thanks Mel for incredible care and thought you put into your shipping