What common mistakes kill air plant pups?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.It's essential to avoid common mistakes when raising air plant pups to ensure their survival. Many well-meaning growers injure their plants due to errors that could be avoided. Knowledge of these pitfalls enables the faithful to protect their delicate offsets. Find out what practices to avoid for happy pups!
Improper Environments
- Never use soil or enclosed terrariums causing fatal rot
- Avoid placing near heating vents causing rapid dehydration
- Prevent exposure to temperatures below 50°F or above 90°F
- Ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues
Nutrition Errors
- Overfertilization burns trichomes essential for nutrient absorption
- Using non-bromeliad specific fertilizers causes chemical damage
- Applying fertilizer to dry plants rather than after hydration
- Fertilizing during dormancy periods stresses developing pups
Separation Mishaps
- Premature removal before reaching 1/3 mother's size
- Using unsterilized tools introducing pathogens
- Exposing fresh cuts to direct sunlight causing tissue damage
- Rough handling tearing delicate pup connections
Mistakes made in watering are particularly lethal. Failure to dry the plant completely after watering can lead to crown rot. I lost three pups before I learned always to put them on their heads. Water quality counts, too. The mineral incrustation from tap water suffocates trichomes. Only the use of rainwater will suffice.
Miscalculating light can hinder development. Soft new growth is burned by direct sunlight. Inadequate light impairs the plants' ability to photosynthesize. The answer lies in the quality of bright, indirect light provided. Rotate the plants weekly to ensure even exposure, prevent damage, and check them weekly for bleached tips, which indicate overexposure.
Environmental stability reduces stress. Avoid drastic changes in temperature or humidity. Maintain stable conditions that meet the species' requirements. Group plants together to create stable microclimates around those plants. Monitor temperatures and humidity using hygrometers. Mortality during pupation is significantly reduced with stable environments.
Proper care gives rewarding results. Your pups will develop into healthy plants and produce offsets themselves, resulting in sustainable colonies. Start using these solutions today. Your successful air plant collection awaits.
Read the full article: 7 Essential Steps for Air Plant Pups Care
