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The Tillandsia Stricta (Air plant) is one of the most popular and adaptable species of air plants, known for its soft, green-silver foliage and beautiful blooms. Like all air plants, it is epiphytic, meaning it absorbs all its water and nutrients through its leaves from the air, not from soil.
Here is a comprehensive care guide for your Tillandsia Stricta (Air plant):
Tillandsia Stricta (Air Plant) Care Guide
1. Light
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Ideal
Bright, Indirect Light. This is crucial for their health and growth. An east-facing window is great, or a spot near a south or west window that is filtered by a sheer curtain.
Artificial Light
They do very well under full-spectrum fluorescent or LED grow lights for about 12 hours a day.
Warning
Avoid intense, direct sun, especially hot afternoon sun, which can quickly dry out and burn the foliage.
2. Watering (The Soak Method)
The primary method for watering is soaking, as misting is often insufficient for proper hydration.
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Frequency
Once per week. In very hot or dry climates, you may increase this to twice a week or supplement with misting.
Soaking Time
Submerge the entire plant (except for a bloom spike, if present) in a bowl of room-temperature water for 20 to 30 minutes.
Drying
This is the most critical step. After soaking, gently shake off the excess water. Place the plant upside down on a towel in a bright, well-ventilated area.
Drying Time
The plant must be completely dry within 1 to 3 hours. If water is trapped in the base, it will lead to fatal rot. You can use a fan to increase air circulation and speed up drying.
Water Type
Rainwater, filtered water, or tap water that has sat out for 24 hours (to let chlorine dissipate) is best. Avoid distilled water, as it lacks essential nutrients.
Signs of Thirst
Leaves will become more curled or concave. The tips may turn dry or brown.
3. Air Circulation
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Requirement
Air plants need excellent air movement to dry quickly and mimic their natural habitat.
Placement
Never place an air plant in a completely closed container or terrarium (e.g., a globe with no opening). If using a terrarium, ensure it is open and large enough for good air flow.
After Watering
Ensure the area has good ventilation to facilitate the 1–3 hour drying time.
4. Temperature & Humidity
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Temperature
Prefers warm conditions, ideally between 50∘F and 90∘F (10∘C to 32∘C). They are not frost-tolerant and should be kept indoors during cold weather.
Humidity
Tillandsia stricta is a "mesic" (medium water-requiring) species that enjoys high humidity. If your home air is dry, supplemental misting a few times a week can be beneficial between soaks.
5. Fertilizing
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Method
Fertilizing is not required but will encourage faster growth, blooming, and "pupping" (producing offsets).
Fertilizer
Use a specialized Tillandsia or Bromeliad fertilizer diluted to 1/4 or 1/2 strength.
Frequency
Apply once a month during the spring and summer growing season, either by adding it to the soaking water or misting it on.
6. Display and Life Cycle
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Mounting
You can display it on driftwood, shells, rocks, or ceramic pieces. Use a waterproof adhesive (like E-6000) or wire to attach it. Never plant it in soil.
Life Cycle
Air plants bloom only once in their lifetime. After blooming, the "mother" plant will begin to produce "pups" (small baby plants) around its base.
Pups
You can leave the pups attached to form a clump, or gently separate them when they are at least 1/3 to 1/2 the size of the mother plant.
Grooming
It is normal for some of the lowest leaves to dry out and brown as the plant grows. You can gently pull these off or trim brown leaf tips with sharp scissors.
