Growing Bromeliad Plants Indoors
Bromeliads are a tropical plant that has bright range of colors from deep reddish pink to all shades of yellow. The foliage of the plant creates a flower shape containing the highest density of color. Bromeliad leaves are commonly spotted with either cream or light pink, giving the leaves an attractive appearance. The pineapple is related to the bromeliads and as such, grows on the ground. These plants grow profusely in Central and South America where for centuries the natives would use the plant for food, and as a clothing source, since the fibers of the plant are easy to work with once dried. As a house plant, these are quite easy to grow even though they do require constant care so they do not die.
Just like the African violet, bromeliads cannot be placed in direct sunlight even though they require heat to survive. Bromeliads also prefer a driersoil instead of moist, so this is one plant that cannot be over watered.
One of the most unique features of the bromeliad is that it blooms only once in its life. After that, new plants, or “pups”, as they are commonly referred to, start to grow on the parent plant. When the small plants become adults, they have the ability to flower on their own. The original plant, of course, can still be kept and it will continue to grow beautiful leaves so long as it is properly cared for.
When the pretty pink or yellow flower that grows in the center has finally run its course and died, snip it off with a pair of gardening shears. This will allow the new young plants to grow in the center. The parent plant won’t die but instead nurture the new young growths. New growths can range from just one up to five, depending on the plant.
Bromeliad plants do not have complex roots so an average sized planter can be used for the plant. Any good indoor potting soil, such as the kind used for orchids, can be used for the plant if you repot one or receive one from someone you know. Many times when the new young plants grow they can easily be separated from the parent plant and be given as gifts to others. As with other house plants, make sure it has good drainage, placing a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the planter before filling it with soil. Water it once a week and enjoy your bromeliad!
Image Credit: Murderbike, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
