Where to Buy Air Plants: Finding the Best Sources

Air plants, also known as tillandsia, have become increasingly popular houseplants in recent years. Their sculptural shapes and minimal care requirements make them an excellent choice for both beginner and expert gardeners. But where are the best places to buy healthy, vibrant air plants? This guide will explore the top sources to find these exotic beauties for your home or office.

Local Nurseries and Garden Centers

Visiting local nurseries and garden centers is a great way to hand select air plants in person Inspect each plant closely for

• Firm, non-mushy leaves and roots
• Good green color without browning
• Signs of new growth from the center

Ask staff about the best air plant varieties for your climate and growing conditions. Look for plants kept in temperature controlled environments, not hot greenhouses. Reputable sellers should have healthy plants and be able to provide care tips.

Large chain garden centers may have a limited air plant selection. Visit specialty plant nurseries for the best variety and unique species. Ask about sourcing – some carry locally grown plants.

Online Stores

Online plant stores offer convenience and often a wider selection of air plant species sizes and colors. Reputable sellers include

• Air Plant Supply Co – Offers free shipping on orders over $30. Wide selection and bulk discounts available.

• Air Plant City – Features rare hybrids and starter packs for beginners. Free shipping over $49.

• Etsy – Multiple independent sellers offer air plants, Carefully review shop stats and policies before purchasing

When buying online:

• Review recent photos to assess plant health and quality
• Check shop policies regarding shipping, guarantees, returns
• Look for sellers with excellent ratings and reviews

Specialty Plant Shops

In some areas, specialty brick and mortar plant shops focus exclusively on air plants and other tillandsia. These meticulously curated shops are staffed by experts who can recommend the perfect plants and provide specialized care advice.

Though pricier, these shops often carry hard-to-find species and hybrids not available elsewhere. Visiting specialty shops also offers the experience of seeing hundreds of air plants artfully displayed.

Plant Swaps and Trades

Connecting with other air plant collectors in your area can be an affordable way to expand your collection. Check for local plant swap groups on Facebook or Nextdoor.

Ask friends and family if they have pups or offsets to trade. Air plants frequently produce baby plants or “pups” that can be removed and grown into new plants.

Use caution when trading plants to avoid spreading pests or disease. Inspect all plants closely before taking them home. Quarantine any new acquisitions before introducing to existing plants.

Choosing Healthy Air Plants

When sourcing air plants, look for:

• Firm leaves, not mushy, wrinkled or wilting
• Bright green foliage without brown tips or spots
• Established root system (white, not black roots)
• Signs of new growth from center or base
• Good size for price – avoid tiny, immature plants

Avoid plants kept in sealed boxes or bags, as lack of airflow promotes rot. Select plants displayed openly in well-lit, ventilated areas.

Quarantining New Plants

It’s important to quarantine all new plant purchases for 2-4 weeks before placing alongside existing plants. This prevents introducing pests or disease into your established collection.

During quarantine, inspect plants closely for any signs of problems and treat if needed. Discard any plants that decline or fail to thrive before introducing to your collections.

Acclimating Air Plants

Air plants purchased online or from shops may need time to acclimate to your home conditions before going on display. Keep new plants in bright, indirect light and mist lightly until signs of new growth emerge.

Gradually expose them to increased light levels and slightly drier conditions. Avoid drastic changes in lighting or humidity right away. With proper acclimation, your new plants will transition smoothly into their permanent environment.

Enjoy the Hunt!

Sourcing air plants can be an enjoyable part of the growing experience. Check local shops and nurseries often, as inventory continually changes. Get on retail email lists for specials and new arrivals.

Connecting with community growers creates an opportunity to learn. Ultimately, take your time and select plants carefully to start your collection off right. The search for the perfect air plants may be challenging but also very rewarding!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are signs of a healthy air plant?

Healthy air plants have firm, non-mushy leaves and roots. Their foliage is a bright, fresh green and they show signs of new growth from the center. Avoid plants with brown, wrinkled leaves or blackened roots.

How can I source rare or unusual air plant varieties?

Specialty plant stores and reputable online sellers offer the widest selections and rarest varieties. Joining local plant trade groups can also help you find unique plants not available in major retailers.

Should I mist my air plants right after purchasing?

Wait a few days before misting new air plants to allow any damaged leaves or openings to callous over. Then begin regular misting per that species’ needs once acclimated.

What supplies do I need to quarantine new air plants?

For quarantine you’ll need clean shears/scissors, rubbing alcohol, insecticidal soap, spray bottles, paper towels, and separate Grower Pots or containers for isolation.

How long should I quarantine new air plant purchases?

A 2-4 week quarantine period is recommended to monitor for any pests or signs of disease before introducing new plants to your existing collection.

Can I propagate air plants to trade with others?

Yes! Air plants readily produce offsets and pups that can be removed and traded once established on their own. This allows you to expand your collection in an eco-friendly way.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect air plants for your unique needs may take some time and effort. But visiting reputable local shops, leveraging online sources and connecting with other collectors in your area can uncover beautiful and unusual additions to your indoor jungle.

Take care to source established, healthy plants and properly quarantine and acclimate your new acquisitions. Then get ready to enjoy these exotic beauties as living works of art within your home.