As Tillandsia Air Plant lovers, we all look forward to “the bloom”. A time when our favorite air plants display their very best form – exquisite color and awesome flowers. Unfortunately, this is doesn't happen as often as we would like – and the blooms typically don’t last very long, which is one reason why we collect so many different varieties.
So, as an artist and designer, I started creating my Plantstr Watercolor Collection.
I’ve been able to capture the exquisite beauty of air plants at their peak of brilliance, and can now share that moment in watercolor prints in various sizes, either flat or framed, as well as canvas wrapped prints, note cards and other goodies for your home and office. These make memorable gifts for the Tillandsia lovers in your life.
You can place an order here (http://www.plantstr.net/collections/tillandsia-air-plant-watercolor-collection) for 8”x10” watercolor prints. These are individually printed on 300gsm Acid-Free, Cold Press Watercolor Paper.
Other sizes of Prints and Stretched Canvas Prints – with and without frames, as well as a great collection of customized goods and wearable’s can be purchased at: www.society6.com/plantstr.
PLEASE NOTE: Interior Designers- please contact me for additional sizes, finishes and framing options up to 30”x40”. Perfect for Restaurants, Hotels and Retail.
Les@Plantstr.net
Plants are beautiful; they are a symbol of life and beauty in its purest form. Having plants within the house is even better as they give you a sense of being in touch with nature and the peace that come with that even when you are inside your house. However, most plants require a lot of attention, finding the right vase; watering them regularly otherwise they will die. All this may be a bit overwhelming and if you love plants but do not trust yourself in remembering to tend to them regularly, then air plants may just be the plants for you.
Air plants, also known as Tillandsia, are a branch of the Bromeliad family of plants that DO NOT require soil in order to thrive, but rather get most of their nutrients and water from the air. Their leaves are designed in such a way that they absorb all the nutrients needed for their survival-hence the name air plants. In nature, they require a surface on which they can attach themselves using their roots, mostly trees, rocks, walls and other plants, and do not take any nutrients from the host.
Air Plants thrive naturally in tropical, warm weather conditions. However, there are over 550 species of the plant and their needs may vary. Most air plant leaves are thin, tubular shaped and change color from green to red when they are about to produce their gorgeous purple/yellow flowers.
Air plants are quickly becoming popular. Given that they come in many varieties, you need to conduct some research in order to be able to make a decision as to what will grow best for your needs. The Internet is a good place to start and has pictures of the various types of air plants.
So after selecting the air plants you prefer for your collection or design, you need to know how to take care of them. They do not require as much attention as the other ordinary plants. but if neglected for too long will die. It is important to place the plants where they are getting a good amount of filtered sunlight, but not baking in direct sunlight.
A little misting is necessary once or twice a week, as is a monthly soaking bath. This will go a long way in providing the extra moisture air plants need inside a home. Fertilized in liquid low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as that used for orchids, on a quarterly schedule would help give them extra nutrients. Diluted the fertilizer to 1/4 strength and either add to your misting bottle or to your soaking bath. Air plants cannot survive in cold climates and therefore avoid keeping in temperatures below 50 degrees. Most importantly, the plant is totally dependent on air to live, hence ensure there is a lot of free flowing air around it. DO NOT bury in soil or other materials that absorb water. Do all this and your air plant will grow beautifully. Buying air plants from a reputable dealer is the best option, especially if you do not know much about air plants. This is because they have already made the decision concerning what species survive the best and would provide you with first hand advice on how to care for the plants. After all, we are part of nature.