These quirky looking plants are members of the pineapple family Most are epiphytes or air plants, but can be grown in containers and require little care. You can encourage bud set by placing a plastic bag over the plant and enclosing it with an apple. The ethylene initiates budding. Once it starts blooming, it can go for months. Some varieties also have colorful foliage, adding to the display.
Light: Bright light. Generally the brighter the light, the brighter the flower color. However, bromeliads don't like to bake in hot sun, so use some discretion during the summer.
Water: Water by letting the water collect in the cups between leaves. It will eventually get absorbed.
Fertilizer: Don't feed during the winter months. Mixing a little controlled release fertilizer into the potting mix in spring is probably the best option, since you'll be watering the foliage and a water soluble fertilizer could build up and burn the leaves.
Temperature: Most bromeliads are tropical or subtropical and like temps in the 70 - 75̊F during the day, dipping down to 60 - 65̊F at night. A high humidity (40 to 60 percent) will also make them feel at home.
Additional Tips: Plant in a shallow container with a course potting mix for good drainage. Something with bark pieces in it would be perfect. You want to anchor the plant, but still allow good aeration.
