What type of fertilizer is safe for air plants?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Selection of proper safe fertilizer keeps damage at bay while promoting healthy air plant vibrant growth. Air plants with adequate nutrition will help develop new leaves, flowers, and blooming cycles. DO NOT USE standard plant foods, as they are infused with chemicals that can be detrimental to delicate trichomes. The fertilizer you choose directly affects the health and longevity of your air plants.
Product Selection
- Use bromeliad or orchid-specific formulas only
- Avoid urea-based fertilizers completely
- Check for essential micronutrients like zinc and magnesium
- Liquid formulas absorb best through trichomes
Dilution Protocol
- Mix bromeliad fertilizer at 1/4 strength
- Dilute all-purpose formulas to 1/8 strength
- Add to soaking water for even distribution
- Never apply undiluted fertilizer directly
Seasonal Timing
- Apply monthly during spring and summer growth
- Reduce to every 8-12 weeks in fall
- Stop completely during winter dormancy
- Discontinue when blooming begins
Fertilizer should be applied in the morning when the plants are most effectively absorbing nutrients. Weekly, during the months of active plant growth, a dilute solution can be added to the soaking water. Avoid foliar spraying as this will damage trichomes and potentially lead to leaf drop. After fertilizer application, it is best to rinse plants to reduce salt build-up on the foliage.
Identify nutrient deficiency indications that require attention. The leaves are pale from a lack of nitrogen. Tipping leaves brown is a sign of a potassium shortage. Growth can be slow if phosphorus is insufficient for the plant's age and size. Take action by varying the type or use of fertilizer. Most plants recover in a matter of weeks.
Make sure substrate and other growing mediums are at the correct CEC for bloom cycles using targeted nutrition. Increase phosphorus before flowering to support bud formation from leaf axils. Use bloom products, such as cinnamon and other bloom recipes, as well as other products at 1/4 strength during the bloom cycle. Stop all fertilization once blooms are visible and return to using post-bloom stages for pup formation and growth.
To manage over-fertilization hazards, the most critical requirement is vigilant monitoring. Once a month, flush the plants with pure, distilled water to avoid salt buildup. Watch for a white crust forming on top of the soil, as this could be an excess of minerals. You should also reduce the frequency of fert.......... (continued)
Read the full article: How to Care for Air Plants: Expert Guide
