Terrariums are a fun way to add a bit of green to any space, and with the addition of different types of bases, you can really make your terrarium stand out! We get a lot of questions about how to display air plants in terrariums, like what kinds of bases to use, and whether they need soil. etc. Below you will find some tips for choosing the right bases and accents to make a beautiful air plant terrarium!
For the base, you can use preserved reindeer moss, decorative sand, small rocks, seashells, bark, marbles, etc. The possibilities are endless when it comes to colors and textures of sand and rock for terrariums so have fun with it!
You don’t need soil for your air plants to thrive, so no need to include it here. In fact the majority of air plants should NOT be planted in soil. You can easily layer moss, sand, or rock to create variation and texture in your terrarium.
You dont want your air plants sitting against any moisture in their terrariums or holders, so make sure whatever base you use is completely dry. Another thing to keep in mind is the kind and size of terrarium you are building. Where will this terrarium be displayed? Is it hanging or will it sit tabletop? Answering these questions should help you decide on what substrate to use in your terrarium. Moss as a base layer may be better for hanging terrariums since moss isn’t as heavy as sand and will be less likely to shift around and cause a mess if the terrarium sways a bit.
Little pieces of bark or driftwood can provide a pretty rustic look as a base or accent in your terrarium, but make sure that whatever wood you use is free of pests. We like to use orchid bark that you can find at Lowe’s or Home Depot. Be careful using bark or sticks that you might find outside, as it may have pests or bugs in it that could harm your plant.
If you have any questions about making your terrarium or need terrarium supplies, shoot us an email at [email protected], we’re happy to help! Or, if you’d like a kit that has everything that you need, look no further, we have those too! Take a look at these terrarium kits that have everything you need to create your own DIY terrarium!
Air plants also known as tillandsias, are epiphytic plants that grow by absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air. Unlike most plants air plants don’t require soil to grow. However, providing them with the right potting mix can help support healthy growth. When choosing soil for an air plant, there are several important factors to consider.
Air Plants Don’t Need Much Soil
In their native habitats in Central and South America, air plants attach themselves to trees, rocks, and other surfaces. Their roots anchor them in place, but don’t absorb moisture and nutrients Instead, air plants rely on trichomes – specialized cells on their leaves that take in water and nutrients.
While air plants don’t need soil, a little bit can help support the plant and keep it upright in a pot or mounted display. Air plants will thrive in just 1-2 inches of fast-draining, porous potting mix. Too much soil can retain moisture and cause rotting.
Focus on Aeration and Drainage
Since air plants don’t rely on their roots for moisture and nutrients, the soil serves mainly as an anchor. Good aeration and drainage are the most important factors when choosing potting mix components
Recommended Mix Components:
- Orchid bark – chunks of fir or redwood bark provide excellent aeration.
- Perlite – lightweight volcanic glass creates air pockets in the soil.
- Pumice – porous volcanic rock improves drainage.
- Peat moss – retains some moisture while still being lightweight.
- Coconut coir – made from coconut husks, absorbs water but allows drainage.
Avoid regular potting soil or compost which will compact over time and retain too much moisture.
Nutrients Are Optional
While air plants don’t need nutrients from soil, providing some in the potting mix can promote growth. Use controlled-release fertilizer pellets formulated for epiphytic plants, or water with diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Too much fertilizer can burn air plant roots and leaves. When using any fertilizer, carefully follow package directions.
Getting the pH Right Matters
Air plants prefer a slightly acidic soil pH between 5.0-6.5. Testing the pH before planting ensures correct acidity. If the potting mix is too alkaline, the plants may struggle to absorb nutrients properly.
Some components like peat moss will help lower pH into the ideal range. Liquid pH adjuster can also be used to alter levels if needed.
Air Plant Soil Recipes
An ideal air plant potting mix contains 2 or 3 lightweight, porous ingredients to create lots of air pockets and allow quick drainage. Here are two simple recipes to try:
Traditional Mix
- 2 parts orchid bark
- 1 part perlite
- 1 part peat moss
Sustainable Mix
- 2 parts coconut coir
- 1 part orchid bark
- 1 part pumice
Mix components in equal proportions by volume based on the recipes. Moisten the potting mix before placing air plants.
Planting Air Plants in Soil
Planting air plants in a pot with soil is easy. Follow these simple steps:
- Choose a container with drainage holes and fill 2 inches deep with potting mix.
- Nestle the air plant in the soil, pressing gently to anchor roots.
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom.
- Place in bright, indirect light.
Air plants absorb moisture through their leaves, so continue to water them the same way after planting by misting, soaking, or dunking.
Transition Air Plants Slowly
Air plants are used to growing without soil anchored to trees and rocks. Sudden changes in environment can shock them. If transferring an unpotted air plant into soil, help it adapt by:
- Partially burying for 1-2 weeks before fully planting.
- Mist more frequently until the roots adjust.
- Gradually increase light exposure to prevent sunburn.
With the right porous potting mix and transition period, air plants can thrive planted in containers. Proper soil provides support while still allowing air circulation to the roots and leaves. By understanding air plant needs, you can give them a healthy growing environment.
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FAQ
What kind of soil do air plants need?
What is the best substrate for air plants?
What medium do air plants need?
What is the lifespan of an air plant?
Do air plants grow in soil?
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are part of the bromeliad family, which also includes pineapples and Spanish moss. Tillandsia, in particular, are epiphytic, which means they don’t grow in soil, but rather grow rooted to a host. I’ll bet you have an epiphyte in your home, and you don’t even know it.
What kind of soil do airplane plants need?
Airplane plants require well-draining soil that allows air to circulate around the roots. This prevents water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot. A good potting mix for an airplane plant should consist of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. These materials provide good drainage and aeration while retaining moisture for the roots.
Do all air plants need the same care?
Luckily, the large majority of the types of air plants all require the same care. Tillandsias are evergreen, perennial flowering plants in the family Bromeliaceae, native to the forests, mountains, and deserts of Central and South America, the southern United States, and the West Indies. They’re a very diverse group of plants.
Do air plants need fertilization?
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique and low-maintenance nature. One major aspect of their care is fertilization, which can be confusing for many new air plant owners. In this article, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your air plant, so you can keep it healthy and thriving.