Air plants (Tillandsia) are versatile and easy-to-care-for plants in the Bromeliad family that don’t grow in soil. They can grow on a variety of surfaces and can fit into the smallest of spaces. In addition, there are a host of benefits to growing them in your home. From increased aesthetic appeal to a range of health benefits, everyone can benefit from having an air plant in their home.
1. They Are Tiny
Image credit: feey via Unsplash
The biggest benefit to having air plants in your home has to be how tiny they are. Although there are certainly larger varieties such as Spanish moss, most are quite small, fitting on a windowsill or coffee table with ease.
You could easily collect hundreds of these unique plants and not feel overrun. Air plants are the perfect way to quickly add some greenery to a room and there’s no fuss of potting up a plant.
2. They Don’t Need Soil
Image credit: feey via Unsplash
Air plants are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants or trees without harming them. They use their roots only for support, not for absorbing nutrients. As a result, they don’t need soil which is a huge benefit, making them even more low-maintenance.
No pots. No repotting. No mess!
Air plants are perfect for any beginner or seasoned gardener. Even though their care is slightly different from other plants, they are ideal houseplants for forgetful gardeners.
3. They Are Easy to Propagate
Image credits: ignacio25 via Canva
Even though they don’t require repotting, with enough love, they may eventually outgrow their space. When this happens, they are easy to propagate.
Using scissors, simply cut the pup from the mother plant, being mindful to leave the new air plant a portion of the root. You can then keep your new air plant, or share it with a friend!
4. Improved Air Quality
Image credit: feey via Unsplash
One of the most talked about health benefits of having houseplants is their ability to purify the air. Although you may need quite a few of these tiny air plants to remove the majority of the toxins from your house, any little bit can help. Once you get started, you may find you collect more of these adorable plants.
Improved air quality can lead to benefits for your lungs as well as your skin. Air plants are one type of houseplant that absorb carbon dioxide during the day and release oxygen at night. They are especially beneficial in bedrooms, providing additional oxygen while you sleep.
5. Reduced Humidity
Image credit: JamesDeMers via Pixabay
Since air plants don’t grow in soil, but rather take in all their nutrients from the environment, they are particularly effective in reducing humidity. They pull water vapor from their surroundings, and the reduced moisture will help make your home feel cooler. Place them on a sunny window sill as they need lots of light to grow, and don’t forget to water them.
Even though they absorb moisture from the air, they still require regular rinsing, soaking, or misting.
6. Stunning Décor
Image credit: allybally4b via Pixabay
There is no denying that air plants add a particular aesthetic appeal. No matter what your style or tastes, with over 500 species of Tillandsia, there is a variety for you. Whether you prefer rustic-style wooden plaques, zen rock gardens, dazzling glass globes, or ingenious works of art, there are endless ways to display and enjoy your air plants.
Tillandsia xerographica is a stunning variety with large, curled, mossy-green leaves that make a perfect centerpiece. Tillandsia maxima display vibrant Bromeliad colors which are unique for an air plant. This variety is also capable of handling more sun; ideal for your south-facing windows.
7. Improve Your Mood
Image credit: feey via Unsplash
Studies show that sharing your home with houseplants can improve your mood, making you happier. This only works if you surround yourself with plants you love, so don’t feel bad about passing your well-loved eyesores to your friends and family, making room for new plants that bring you joy. Air plants are the perfect addition to any home as they can live on so many surfaces and are fun to care for.
Plants can also increase your concentration, retention, and productivity. There’s something about nature that seems to inspire the human soul. This can be particularly beneficial in a home office, or other locations where you study, read, and work. While other plants may crowd your workspace, air plants don’t need much room, adding some life to your desk. Wherever you decide to display your air plants, they are sure to brighten your day.
8. Reduce Stress
Image credit: Alena Darmel via Pexels
In addition to improving your mood, growing air plants can release muscle tension, lower your blood pressure, and reduce stress. Watching your air plants grow can be a soothing and exciting activity and one that many find relaxing. Air plants are low-maintenance plants, meaning you can spend the majority of the time enjoying their beauty and very little time worrying about them.
Bring Air Plants Into Your Home
There are countless benefits to bringing air plants into your home and since they are non-toxic, everyone in the family can enjoy them. With an array of health benefits, adding greenery to your home is an easy and stress-free way to take care of yourself and those around you. Plus, the pop of color and mesmerizing leaves are sure to elevate your décor.
Do you have air plants in your home? Share why you love them in the comments.