With its thick, fleshy leaves and majestic stature, Tillandsia xerographica is strikingly different from other Tillandsia species. You can find out to what extent ornamental growth requires modified care here.
How do you properly care for a Tillandsia xerographica?
Caring for a Tillandsia xerographica requires regular spraying with lime-free water, occasional fertilization during the vegetation phase and a bright, humid location. To fertilize, use liquid bromeliad fertilizer or commercial plant fertilizer, halved dosage, from March to September.
What is the water supply like?
The almost rootless Tillandsia xerographica regulates its water balance via special scales on its leaves. Although the fleshy leaves can store a supply of water, the exotic plant depends on a regular supply of moisture. How to do it right:
- Spray the foliage regularly with lime-free water
- The higher the temperatures and lower the humidity, the more often water is needed
- Do not spray at room temperatures below 18 degrees Celsius or only spray once a month
The epiphytic beauty likes to take a bath in lime-free water at room temperature. Then shake off the remaining drops and place the plant in a bright place to dry.
When and how should a Tillandsia xerographica be fertilized?
The nutrient supply is limited to the vegetation phase. From March to September, add a liquid bromeliad fertilizer or commercial plant fertilizer to the spray water every 4 weeks. We recommend halving the specified dosage. Only when the leaves lose their beautiful color should they be fertilized.
Can leaves and flowers be cut?
You should not touch your xerographics with scissors. If an older leaf is drawn in and dries out, please wait. Sooner or later the tillandsia will release the leaf so that you can pull it out of the rosette with a slight tug. Only the withered inflorescence is cut off with a sharp, clean knife.
How can you have a he althy winter?
The Tillandsia xerographica loves constant light and temperature conditions. Therefore, make sure to keep it in a bright, humid location in winter. Temperatures should not fall below 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. From October to February, please do not apply fertilizer and spray the plant less often.
Tip
By attaching a Tillandsia xerographica to wood or stone, it will attract everyone's attention with its silvery, shimmering rosette of leaves. As a living decoration, the epiphytic tillandsia stands out on the wall or boasts of its spectacular flowers floating freely in a terrarium.
