Airing it out: Try out these other-worldly plants in or out

NT Features

Air plants are almost otherworldly the way they can grow, just in air. No soil is required at all. Plus, their leaves resemble that of alien tentacles or the appendages of an exotic sea creature. These fascinating little plants have gained popularity in the last couple of years, appearing across garden centres and even at the checkout lines at grocery stores. There are also plenty of online nurseries specialising in air plants, the unusual types in particular. They’re a bit different to grow than most other houseplants so we’ve rounded up a few reasons and tips for caring for air plants and enjoying them in your home.

Addition of unique aesthetic

Dwellers in bustling cities can spruce up their tight quarters or yardless homes with a wide range of air plant species. Among the most popular are – xerographica, spanish moss and bulbosa. These air plants can be hung from the ceiling in little circular terrariums. They can also be used as a centrepiece on the dining room table. Spanish moss can be replaced with your curtains to add a touch of green and life to the cosy room you take long showers in. They are living decor to all the lifeless spaces one can comprehend. Air plants are the quickest way to liven up real estate.

Travel-friendly

These plants are easy to move from one particular location to the next without the worry of them dying on the way – which comes in handy, particularly to those who are students and people in their 20 somethings with less-than-permanent addresses. It is also perfect for anybody who is always on the go. If you move, they can be taken with you – it’s not similar to hauling a palm tree.

Long life

Air plants can live for a decade and are also very easy to look after. You won’t kill an air plant if you occasionally forget it exists. They can live for weeks without water, and once you find the time to provide them attention, a good 20 to 30 minute soak is enough to replenish them. Some species can survive for 10 years or more. There are hundreds of variations with the genus of air plants. So it does not matter if you are looking for a short-term or long-term commitment, there will always be a species that will suit your living situation the best.

For all ages and backgrounds

While air plants might seem as though they were structured for millennials and their stereotype of having short attention spans but their easy upkeep and varying sizes make them a perfect fit for all. Air plants are particularly good for beginners. Nurseries even have little eight-year-old kids coming in to buy their first plants – which their parents want to be an air plant for their easy-care properties. Another adorable aspect of these unique plants is that they produce ‘pups.’ These pups can be removed from the source plant and can be grown separately, with them further sprouting their own families.

Low maintenance and no soil

Their preferred climate is humid meaning higher than average humidity during warmer seasons. If you choose to grow them indoors, they will thrive well in steamy bathrooms. They require minimal light and water. They take nutrients from the air and not soil, the story behind the inspiration of their name. If your environment does not offer enough humidity, you can always soak the plants in water every few weeks. While soil and potting can be a messy affair, these guys simply sit on top of a counter, offering a no-mess situation to incorporate nature inside your home.