Ever since I saw a stunning display of air plants in Matthew Robbins’ Inspired Weddings, I’ve been fascinated by these unique plants. They add interesting texture to wedding bouquets and boutonnieres, ceremony arches and centerpieces. They also make whimsical arrangements for home decor. If you’ve never heard of them, here’s a quick intro:
What are air plants?
Also called Tillandsia, air plants are epiphytes; like orchids, they grow on other plants instead of soil.
Why are they special?
Tillandsia get their nutrients from the air so they don’t need their roots for anything but anchoring. This allows air plants to grow just about anywhere.
Are they hard to grow?
Once you understand their growing needs, air plants are simple to care for. Tillandsia thrive in warm, humid conditions with air circulation and bright, indirect sunlight. They do need regular watering—think misting, or the occasional soak—but should not sit in standing water for any length of time. For more details on their care and watering, check out this guide on how to care for air plants.
How do you display them?
Air plants can be mounted on driftwood, used in terrariums, added to bouquets and other displays, even hung in mid-air with fishing line! They can be glued, tied, or wired to create elaborate architectural arrangements. Visit our air plant inspiration board on Pinterest to see ideas for bouquets, terrariums, and other air plant arrangements.
Where can you buy them?
If you can’t find tillandsia at your local garden store or florist, you can buy them online at Air Plant Supply Co., Air Plant Worlds, or Air Plant Design Studio. You can also find terrarium kits, pots, and other Tillandsia arranging accessories online.
Do you like air plants as much as I do? How do you like to display them?
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