what to plant with bromeliads

Plants that compliment bromeliads

Dracaenas and Cordylines.
Aroids eg Anthurium, Philodendron, Alocasia, Caladium.
Certain palms.
Cycads.
Deciduous plants eg Frangipani.
Begonias.

Do bromeliads like sun or shade?

Depending on the species, these beauties can reach up to 2m high and wide. They're also quite adaptable and can be found growing in shade to full sun. However, they develop their best colour and shape in full sun with afternoon shade.

Do you plant bromeliads in soil?

Terrestrial Bromeliads are generally larger and have root systems similar to other more common plants which have greater soil volume and moisture requirements. You can also use a 50 / 50 mix of orchid bark and standard potting soil. Bromeliads aren't picky about their soil as long as it is well draining.

Do bromeliads like coffee grounds?

A few suggested brown materials are leaves, straw, chipped branches and tree trimmings, paper and sawdust. These are generally slower to decompose. Green materials include plant-based kitchen scraps (no bones, fat or meat leftovers), grass clippings, manures, coffee grinds, eggshells and green leaves, among others.

Is Epsom salt good for bromeliads?

Adding a small amount of Epsom salts to the growing medium will encourage plant growth and blooming. ... Most bromeliads only bloom once.

How often should you water a bromeliad?

While their roots prefer to be moist, they can never be allowed to remain soggy. Water that does not drain properly through your potting medium can cause your plant to develop root or crown rot. It is often times sufficient to water your bromeliad once a week.

Where is the best place to plant bromeliads?

Bromeliads grow best in bright, indirect light, both indoors and out. Don't put them where the afternoon sun will shine directly on their leaves, as that can cause them to burn, but don't stick them in a dark corner, either.

How do you prepare soil for bromeliads?

Here are three suggested mixes that you can try yourself:

Equal parts sphagnum peat moss, medium grade horticultural perlite, and fine fir bark.
1/2 potting soil, 1/4 perlite, and 1/4 orchid bark.
Equal parts soil-less potting soil, perlite, and pine bark nuggets.

What is the best fertilizer for bromeliads?

Feed blushing bromeliads weekly with low-nitrogen 5-59-10 ratio fertilizer diluted to one-eighth strength, or use general purpose 20-20-20 fertilizer diluted to one-sixteenth strength monthly. Decrease or withhold feeding if your blushing bromeliad begins to lose foliage color or if it becomes large and misshapen.

Should you remove old soil when repotting?

Most potted plants require repotting every one to two years, usually in spring as new growth first begins to appear. Removing most of the old soil and repotting the plant can also help minimize disease and pest buildup in the soil that could affect the health of the plant.

Will coffee grounds kill ants?

When you're plagued by ants, it feels natural to reach for the insect spray. Ants are repulsed by the strong smell the brewed coffee grounds put out. ... Spritz brewed grounds that are outside with water to keep them fresh and replace brewed coffee grounds in the house every day.

Do coffee grounds attract rats?

Avoid the eggshells in your compost, but coffee grounds, fruit peels and other leafy material will not attract rodents.

How long do bromeliad plants live?

How long do bromeliads last? Most bromeliad varieties live between two and five years before the mother plant dies.

Should I cut the dead flower off my bromeliad?

Well, it might sound harsh, but once your bromeliad bloom has begun to die, you can cut it off! Bromeliads are known for their exotic, long-lasting flowers. These tropical plants can bloom for months, in fact. ... By cutting off the bromeliad's dying flower, you can help the plant refocus its energy on these new pups.

What is the best way to water a bromeliad?

If you can use it, rainwater is the best water for bromeliads because it is most natural. Distilled water also works well for watering bromeliads. Bromeliad water can also be tap water, but there may be a build up of salt and chemicals from tap water. Bromeliads are tough, carefree plants indoors.

How do you get bromeliads to rebloom?

Forcing a Bromeliad to Bloom Sooner

Empty the depression in the plant and encase it in a large plastic bag accompanied by a slice of apple, kiwi or banana. These fruits give off ethylene gas, which will help force the plant into bloom. Keep the plant in the bag for 10 days and then remove the covering.

Do bromeliads die after blooming?

Do Bromeliads Flower Once – Tips On Bromeliad Care After Flowering. ... The flowers can stay blooming for months, but eventually they fade and die. This doesn't mean the plant is dying; it just means the plant is focusing energy on the leaves and roots.

Can bromeliads be in full sun?

Most bromeliads grow under the cover of a tree canopy. Therefore, they are not adapted to being exposed to direct sunlight. Many bromeliads will scorch and lose their color in direct sun. There are, however, bromeliads that enjoy bright, direct light and will thrive in full sun.

How do you keep bromeliads colorful?

For epiphytic bromeliads, spray a diluted liquid fertilizer onto the leaves several times during the growing season. Don't put the fertilizer into the cup, as it could burn the plant or cause algae to grow in the pooled water. Do not fertilizer plants in the winter when they're dormant, or when they are in bloom.

How far apart should you plant bromeliads?

Space the new plants so they are 12- to 18-inches apart in the new bed and add an inch or two of mulch. One option used by gardeners is planting the new shoots in containers of potting soil and allowing them to grow and become established for several months. When more mature they are then planted in the prepared site.

Are bromeliads poisonous to dogs?

Bromeliad plants are ideal for homeowners who don't want a plant that requires lots of care; they thrive with bright light and humidity. They are non-toxic to animals and can even be grown using soil-free methods, which is perfect for pet owners who want to avoid a cat or dog digging in the dirt.

What time of year do bromeliads bloom?

With a few exceptions, bromeliads only bloom once. However, the blooms last an exceptionally long time — months or even up to a year. Bromeliads grow and bloom year round. It's always bromeliad season!