Air Plant (Tillandsia ionantha) Care Guide: General Description: Air Plants are epiphytic plants that grow without soil, obtaining their nutrients from the air and water. They belong to the bromeliad family and are native to Central and South America. T. ionantha is a popular variety that is small in size, with bright green leaves that can turn red or pink when in bloom. Watering: Air Plants should be misted frequently, at least once a week, to provide them with enough moisture. It's also a good idea to soak them for about 20 minutes every 2 weeks in a bowl of water to give them a thorough drink. Make sure to shake off any excess water after soaking and allow the plants to dry completely before placing them back in their holder. Lighting: Air Plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. If kept in low light, they may become less vibrant and not bloom. If kept in direct sunlight for too long, they may become sunburned, causing the leaves to turn white or brown. Humidity: Air Plants prefer a humidity level of 50-70%. If the humidity level in your home is lower, you can increase it by placing a tray of water near the plants or misting them more frequently. Feeding: Air Plants can be fertilized once a month during their growing season (spring to fall) with a water-soluble bromeliad fertilizer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution. Pests and Deficiencies: Air Plants are generally pest-free, but may be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. To remove pests, gently wipe the leaves with a solution of water and dish soap, or treat with an insecticide specifically formulated for use on bromeliads. Air Plants can also suffer from magnesium deficiency, causing the leaves to turn yellow. To prevent this, use a fertilizer that contains magnesium. Propagating: Air Plants can be propagated by separating the offsets (pups) that grow from the base of the parent plant when it blooms. Simply twist or cut the pup away from the parent plant, then place it in a location with adequate moisture and light. The pup will develop its own roots over time and become a separate, new plant. Note: Every plant is unique, and the care instructions for T. ionantha may not be the same for other varieties of air plants. Observe your plants and adjust their care as needed to ensure they thrive.