Air plants, known scientifically as Tillandsia, are unique members of the bromeliad family that naturally grow without soil. In their native environments, these epiphytes attach themselves to tree branches or rocks, using their roots purely for anchoring, not for nutrient absorption. Mounting these plants onto wood mimics their natural habitat, creating a living piece of organic art for indoor display. This process showcases their architectural forms while providing a stable base for long-term growth and eventual reproduction.
Selecting and Preparing Mounting Materials
Selecting the proper wood is the first step in creating a successful air plant display. Suitable choices include freshwater driftwood, grapewood, and cork bark, as these materials are naturally rot-resistant and do not release harmful compounds. Avoid resinous woods, such as pine or cedar, or any wood treated with chemicals or preservatives, as these can be toxic to Tillandsia. Before attachment, any wood should be thoroughly cleaned of debris and allowed to dry completely to ensure a secure bond.
The supplies used for securing the plant must be non-toxic and water-resistant. For adhesive methods, a waterproof, plant-safe glue, such as cyanoacrylate gel or silicone aquarium adhesive, is recommended. These glues cure quickly and will not break down during watering. If choosing a mechanical method, use soft, non-corrosive materials like fishing line, aluminum wire, or cotton twine. Copper wire must be avoided, as copper is toxic to air plants and can cause severe damage or death.
Step-by-Step Attachment Techniques
Adhesive Method
The adhesive method offers a secure, permanent attachment that is virtually invisible once the glue dries. Apply only a small, pea-sized amount of glue to the base of the plant, specifically to the short, firm stem or the dried, non-living root base. Do not get glue on the green, living leaves or the body of the plant, as this impedes its ability to absorb water and nutrients through its trichomes. Press the glued base firmly onto the wood for a few minutes until the glue sets.
Mechanical Attachment
Mechanical attachment provides a temporary hold, allowing the plant to be removed easily for soaking. This technique involves carefully wrapping a material like fishing line or thin wire around the base of the plant and securing the ends to the wood. The goal is to hold the plant snugly without constricting its base, which could prevent growth or cause damage. As the air plant grows its own anchor roots, these fasteners can often be removed after several months to a year.
Placement Considerations
Correct placement on the wood ensures the plant’s health and visual appeal. When positioning the Tillandsia, consider how water will drain off the plant after watering, ensuring the base does not collect standing moisture. Placing the plant in a natural depression or on a slight angle facilitates necessary drainage. This strategic location also provides a sturdy base, mimicking the natural crevices where they thrive.
Post-Mounting Care and Watering
Caring for a mounted air plant requires adjusting the usual watering routine, as the plant cannot be easily removed for a deep soak. Instead of soaking, mounted plants benefit from thorough rinsing under a faucet or misting the entire plant until it is completely saturated. This should be done a few times a week, depending on the environment’s humidity. The intensity of watering is balanced by the need for rapid drying.
After a thorough watering, the entire display must be placed in an area with excellent air circulation to dry quickly, ideally within three to four hours. Lingering moisture, particularly where the plant meets the wood, is the primary cause of rot in Tillandsia. Optimal environments include bright, indirect light, such as near an east or west-facing window, and moving air. This combination of proper light and air movement prevents fungal issues and ensures the long-term survival of the display.