Air Plant

Tillandsia spp.

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verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Air Plants need no soil — they absorb nutrients and moisture through their leaves. Available in dozens of forms, they are perfect for creative displays and terrariums.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Air Plant is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Underwateringchevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright indirect light.

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Water

Mist 2–3 times a week or soak for 20 minutes weekly. Allow to dry upside down.

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Soil

No soil needed. Mount on driftwood, shells, or wire.

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Fertiliser

Bromeliad or air plant fertiliser monthly (misted).

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Temperature

10–32°C (50–90°F).

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Humidity

50%+ ideal.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic.

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my air plant turning brown and crispy?

This is almost always underwatering. Air plants need a 20-minute soak weekly or misting 2–3 times a week — crispy, curling leaf tips are the first sign of dehydration, so increase watering frequency and make sure it dries fully afterward.

Do air plants need soil at all?

No. They're epiphytes that absorb water and nutrients through specialized leaf structures called trichomes, so they can be mounted on driftwood, tucked into shells, or simply displayed freely with no potting medium at all.