First and foremost, before you get started on constructing this amazing terrarium, you might want to brush up on how to care for air plants. It’s fortunate for you that it’s quite simple! Air plants (also known as Tillandsias) require this in order to survive.
- Air plants thrive under intense light and may even withstand direct sunlight. Air plants can perish abruptly if they are exposed to too little light. It’s difficult to save them once they’ve reached that point, so make sure you take care of their lighting requirements.
- It’s simple to water air plants… Gather all of your air plants in a large bowl or sink once a week and soak them for 20-30 minutes in water. Allow them to drain on a towel, upside down. If you let water collect in the leaves of your air plants, they’ll rot, so give them a good shake before laying them out to drain.
- Add a half-strength water soluble fertilizer to the water you soak them in every other watering during the growing season.
That concludes our discussion. So, here’s how to construct an air plant terrarium that not only looks great but also complements your home design.
Air Plant Terrarium Supplies
We created our first air plant terrarium with a simple aesthetic in mind. There’s nothing here but white sand, a few stones, and two lovely air plants. Take note of the one that is in full bloom! It’s a common misconception that once air plants bloom, they perish. While they will eventually die after blossoming, they still have a lot of work ahead of them. Blooming signifies that the plant is preparing to generate air plant pups, also known as young air plants, near its base. So never throw away an air plant that has blossomed… it isn’t done yet!
Air Plant Terrarium Instructions
- To achieve the desired look, add air plants. For a more minimalist aesthetic, use one or two… or as many as you can to create an urban jungle image!
As you can see, there are many distinct types of air plants. Some have beautiful leaves, while others have coarser ones. Sizes, hues, and even watering requirements vary.
We also wanted to go for a more natural look with this air plant terrarium. We used foraged items from our local shore, such as a piece of driftwood and a stone coated in barnacles, in this DIY terrarium. We love the contrast between the preserved moss and the three different air plants in this terrarium.
With the plant parent revolution, air plants are all the rage, and this only goes to show that they can be just as beautiful and interesting as any philodendron or fern!
Where to Buy Air Plants
All of the air plants, preserved moss, and terrarium in this post were given by Etsy seller ‘Spyloh,’ and we are so pleased with them that we won’t buy air plants from anybody else for the time being!
We hope you’re ready to start building your own air plant terrarium. Create the ideal environment for your plants to thrive! We hope you’ll enjoy our article on Clever & Cool Indoor Garden Ideas & Projects, as well as our article on What Are Air Plants? or OhMeOhMyDIY !’s Branch Chandelier Air Plant Display!
Can you grow air plants in a terrarium?
I recently visited the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Ft. Myers, Florida, where I viewed their homes, gardens, laboratories, and museum. The plant collections there are fascinating, particularly those of the rubber trees that were evaluated as potential tire materials suppliers.
I took use of Edison’s most famous invention, the light bulb, by purchasing a small terrarium-style hanging planter styled like a light bulb. An air plant sits in sphagnum moss on the inside. I adore looking at it every day because it hangs above my kitchen window.
The Bromeliad family’s air plants, commonly known as Tillandsia, are fascinating plants. Bromeliads are all epiphytes, meaning they rely on something else for support. As a result, plants in nature use their root systems to grow on trees and rocks without harming them. Rather than obtaining water and nutrients from the soil through their roots, they obtain them from the air and rain through their leaves.
Simply give three essentials to maintain air plants healthy and happy: sun, water, and air movement.
First, light in the form of filtered, rather than direct, sunshine from a south, east, or west window is required. You can hang them outside in a tree or other sheltered spot throughout the summer.
Second, appropriate irrigation is essential for Tillandsia growth. I mist mine every few days to keep the sphagnum moss substrate moist while allowing the plant to dry out slightly in between waterings. The leaves are too dry if they curl or roll. Submerge the plant in water overnight to revive it, then shake off any excess water before returning it to its display spot.
Third, proper air circulation allows the plant to dry out between waterings, which helps it avoid illnesses.
Terrariums, which are clear glass or plastic containers packed with miniature plants, are ideal for displaying air plants. Typically, terrariums are securely closed, but one side of my light-bulb-shaped container is fully open to aid air circulation.
- The Peoria and Havana Extension offices will display the 1:30 p.m. session on Tuesday.
Can you put air plants in a closed terrarium?
Tillandsia, often known as air plants, has become increasingly popular in recent years. These tiny epiphytes defy our understanding of standard plant requirements, which makes them all the more intriguing. Making stunning air plant displays is so simple because of their enigmatic nature that anyone can do it, which is one of the reasons they make such fantastic gifts. Unfortunately, they can be relatively easy to kill if not grown in the appropriate conditions. Tillandsia development patterns, general care information, how to build a Tillandsia terrarium, and the equipment required for them to thrive will all be covered in this article.
To properly care for Tillandsia, we must first understand how they grow, like with all air plants. Tillandsia are epiphytes, which means they survive on other plants without parasitizing them. They can be classified into two groups: mesic and xeric. Mesic variants are frequently found high in the tree canopy of the American tropics, indicating that they prefer intense indirect light, good ventilation, frequent rainfall, and anchoring roots. Xeric variants, on the other hand, grow on cliff faces and rocky outcroppings. These air plants require significantly less water, prefer limited amounts of direct sunshine and plenty of air movement, and contain roots that can be used to attach themselves. The trichomes that cover the leaves of the xeric types differ from those of the mesic varieties in that they extract extra moisture from the air. In contrast to the glossy greenish hue of the mesic air plants, they almost appear to have silver fur.
We may create a better environment for Tillandsia in our homes by understanding the native conditions in which they thrive. I always advocate maintaining Tillandsia in an open terrarium because they thrive in damp environments. The key is to create an environment with a higher relative humidity than our ordinary homes while still allowing for enough circulation. Keeping a Tillandsia under a cloche or in a confined terrarium is doomed to failure. So seek for glass containers with a large top opening or holes in the sides.
Traditional terrariums require multiple layers (as mentioned in a previous blog article), but an air plant terrarium only requires one: the drainage layer. The drainage media’s objective is to protect the plants from sitting in water at any time, and it can be made of nearly anything that won’t rot. You can also add some moss or lichen for added decoration and dampness.
Finally, but maybe most critically, Tillandsia require enough lighting. Many individuals try to keep their air plants in conditions that are too dark. In comparison to their natural surroundings, our dwellings are caves. Ideally, they should be placed in an east or west facing window. They can also be to the side or away from a bright south-facing window. The goal is to have bright indirect light during the day, with a few of hours of direct sunlight in the morning or afternoon.
To summarize, an open glass vessel, inert drainage media, possibly some decorative moss, and proper light levels are required to produce a good home for Tillandsia.
Most of the equipment needed to properly water and feed these anomalies can be found in your home. In her book, she says:
Can you plant air plants in sand?
Terrariums are a wonderful way to add a little green to any environment, and you can really make your terrarium stand out by using different types of bases. We get a lot of queries regarding how to exhibit air plants in terrariums, such as what kind of bases to use and whether or not they require soil, and so on. Below are some suggestions for selecting the correct bases and decorations to create a stunning air plant terrarium!
>Preserved reindeer moss, beautiful sand, small rocks, seashells, bark, marbles, and other materials can be used as the substrate. When it comes to the colors and textures of sand and rock for terrariums, the possibilities are unlimited, so have fun with it!
>Since your air plants don’t require soil to survive, there’s no need to include it here. The majority of air plants, in fact, should never be planted in soil. To add variation and texture to your terrarium, just layer moss, sand, or rock.
>You don’t want your air plants in their terrariums or holders to come into contact with any moisture, so make sure whatever base you use is entirely dry.
How often do I mist my air plant?
Air plants in glass globes have grown so popular that I’m always getting calls asking how to care for them. Follow these simple instructions to get the most out of your glass-encased plant. If you’re seeking for glass globes, our shop has a wide selection of distinctive patterns.
- When you initially get your plant, immerse it in water for 20-30 minutes. Take note of the plant’s size and color to determine how content it is. Keep this “image” in your thoughts at all times.
- Every 4-5 days, mist your plant with one spray for tiny globes, 2-3 sprays for globes 3-5 inches in diameter, and more if the plant is in a large open globe. The trick is to determine the drying time; the smaller the globe, the less circulation, the longer the plant will retain moisture. The plant will perish if it is overwatered.
- Remember how your plant appeared after it had been soaked? If it has lost its joyful, healthy appearance, remove it from the globe and soak it for 30 minutes to an hour, then shake it and allow it dry almost entirely before replacing it.
- Do not position your globes in front of a window that receives direct sunlight. Keep in mind that the glass will magnify the sunshine and heat. The ideal light is indirect light, and certain plants may even flourish in low to moderate light.
- Ionantha Guatemala, Ionantha Rubra, Ionantha Scaposa, Ionantha Mexican, Ionantha Fuego, Funkiana, Argentea, Bulbosa Guatemala, and Butzii are some of the most popular globe plants.
- The care instructions that follow are more detailed, so dive right in! As I’ve learnt more over the last year, I’ve added more.
Where should I put my air plant?
All air plants are native to tropical areas where freezing and frost are unheard of. Is it necessary to keep them at temperatures that you are comfortable in without wearing a sweater? Temperatures are usually in the 60s and higher. Place them away from air conditioner vents and drafty winter windows.
Air plants need at least a few hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day to thrive. It’s best to put it within 1 to 3 feet of an east- or west-facing window, or within a foot or two of a light source. They may have hotter, more direct sun and longer exposure if you keep them well watered. Avoid places that are dimly lighted.
Do air plants need pots?
Air plants can be grown in regular pots, but their small size and lack of moisture requirements make them ideal candidates for a variety of alternative planter designs.
For something a little unusual, try one of these unique air plant holders.
This larger air plant fits perfectly in a regular family fish bowl. For a distinctive and beachy atmosphere, add some white gravel and a collection of sea shells.
One of my blog followers gave me a photo of her air plant display, which she thought was extremely cool.
The air plants are held in place by a bent wire at the top of these attractive planters, which are made of wood blocks. So inventive. Lilibeth, thank you for sharing! I adore how these turned out!
Air plants enjoy sitting atop trees in the wild. Wrap some sphagnum moss around a piece of wood and attach the plant to it to achieve this look. When hanging in this manner, it will appear natural and woodsy.
Air plants are a great addition to any terrarium display. Terrariums keep the moisture in and provide the optimal habitat for the plant.
This charming teardrop-shaped glass holder is decorated with a heart and wrapped in copper wire. It gives the small tillandisia a natural appearance as it sits on a bed of green moss.
A note on copper and air plants:
Copper pipes and wires can be poisonous to air plants, especially if they are repeatedly exposed to moisture, which is necessary if you water in the container.
If you want to utilize a copper-containing air plant container, make sure it’s completely sealed with a clear coating like Flex Clear.
You can also remove the air plant from the container while watering it to avoid exposing the copper to wet.
An old wooden drawer with sections was transformed into a lovely succulent planter for an air plant and other succulents in this simple DIY project.
Because Air plants grow on host trees in nature, using log holders to display them makes a lot of sense.
For a completely symmetrical container, this lovely log design showcases two plants, one on each end.
Air plants are ideal options for shallow bowl planting due to their modest stature. For a minimalist look, this attractive air plant bowl container includes gravel, a piece of drift wood, and three distinct air plants.
Driftwood is an excellent choice for a planter. The sea naturally polishes it, forming cracks that can be used to plant tillandsia in.
Logs can be used in a variety of ways in planters. Here are some more log planter ideas.
My most recent trip to the local farmer’s market was spent perusing an air plant vendor’s stall, which featured a plethora of attractive containers. This bird cage caught my eye, and I really like how it looks.
It was about 5 feet tall and had a massive piece of drift wood to hold the tillandsia plants!
This shield type air plant holder has a rustic holder made of a stained wooden plaque and copper tubing.
It’s simple to construct and looks great with the plant. Walnut Hollow Crafts has a tutorial for a shield planter.
This air plant is perfectly housed in a circular sphere constructed of flat copper wire. The planter is simple to spray and looks fantastic with the colorful moss beneath the air plant collection.
In this interesting coffee pot terrarium, my old Mr. Coffee carafe has a dual purpose.
My air plant was paired with other succulent plants to create a lovely display that requires very little watering.
A jute-wrapped glass bottle with a front round opening is embellished with a single wooden bead. For a fun rustic effect, add some colorful moss in various shades and a spiky air plant in the center.
This is a lovely planter. A side of a light bulb has been cut out to allow the air plant to be added with some moss.
I like how the copper wire complements the light bulb’s top hue. Cute, different, and just the right size!
This marbled clay loop makes a great air plant holder and is a fun DIY project.
It’s made of polymer clay that’s been colored before being baked.
This charming planter is composed of a ceramic cat figure with a plant-sitting area on top.
House of Hawthornes has additional adorable air plant holders.
These ancient metal pipe fittings serve as air plant holders as well.
They’re rustic and one-of-a-kind.
Photo courtesy of Flickr user BookFinch.
In this fairy garden fashioned from a brandy snifter, air plants look right at home. The small deck chair is adorable. It creates the ideal seaside scene! Pastels and Macaroons has a fairy garden instruction.
Last but not least, I recently discovered this beautiful planter at Lowe’s.
It’s a blown glass container with a cutout in the front and two copper wire wrappings.
The copper bloom complements the moss’s vibrant colors and nicely exhibits the air plant.
What kind of display do you have for your air plants? In the comments section below, I’d love to see some images!
Is an air plant a succulent?
Succulents and air plants are not the same thing. Succulents have plump or juicy sections, whereas air plants have prickly leaves. The most notable distinction is that air plants get their nutrients from the air and are watered by spraying, whereas succulents live and eat in the earth.
How long do air plants live?
Air plants, often known as tillandsias, are perennial plants. This indicates they survive for an average of more than two years (source), with a lifespan ranging from two to five years. However, the length of time they live depends on the type of air plant as well as the growing conditions.
Are succulents good for terrariums?
Succulents require a certain type of planting media. Succulents are ideal for terrariums since they grow slowly, but if the correct medium isn’t utilized, the condensation that forms might harm the plants. Fill the container halfway with fine gravel or rocks. An inch or two of charcoal on top of this layer. This absorbs any scents or poisons found in the water. After that, add sphagnum moss and cactus soil that has been mildly pre-moistened on top.