Dense, funnel-shaped leaf rosettes that turn red at the tip give this rainforest plant an unusual appearance. The hybrids offered in this country enable us to cultivate them continuously in-house. But caring for it is not an easy task.
How to properly care for a Guzmania plant?
Location, light, watering, fertilization and propagation play an important role in Guzmania care. The plant needs a bright to semi-shady place without direct sun, regular watering with decalcified water, low-dose fertilizer every two weeks and high humidity for optimal growth and flowering.
The location question
Even the best care cannot compensate for the disadvantages of an incorrect location. In this regard, there is no need to try things out; this type of bromeliad does not like changing locations. Check now whether these criteria are met:
- the place is bright to partially shaded, without direct sun
- it is 20 to 22 °C all year round
- the humidity is at least 50%, preferably more
It quickly becomes apparent that a bathroom with a window is the best room for this plant.
Light in winter
The light requirement of this plant is high even in winter. It's worth not letting them go hungry during the dark time of the year. A special plant lamp (€89.00 on Amazon) can help. Under ideal circumstances, the Guzmania may even thank you with a flower.
Pouring
Watering is a delicate task. The soil of the Guzmania must never dry out completely, but it must also never be too wet. Otherwise, root rot will not take long to appear.
- water with decalcified water
- it should be at room temperature
- watering the earth
- pour additional water into the leaf funnels
In summer, the water requirement of this plant is higher than in winter. Adjust your watering behavior accordingly. On dry days, the Guzmania should be additionally sprayed with water to increase humidity.
Tip
Place the Guzmania in a large planter that you have previously filled with gravel or larger stones. This allows you to pour water into the pot without causing waterlogging. The water evaporates, increasing the humidity.
Fertilize
Guzmania needs nutrient replenishment every two weeks from March to August. The fertilizer should be dosed rather lightly. It can be added to both irrigation and spray water.
Propagate
Propagation is also a care step that should give us long-term enjoyment of this plant. Because after flowering, the Guzmania dries up and dies. A new plant must then take its place. That's not difficult, because before it fades, it sprouts new ones in time.
Propagate Guzmania as follows:
- Separate the child from the dry mother plant
- plant in light, nutrient-rich soil
- Put the glass over it or cover it with foil
- place warm and partially shaded
Cutting and repotting
Cutting and repotting are not part of the program for this plant. Because each specimen usually only lives for two to three years. Individual brown, dried leaves are simply carefully plucked from the plant.
