giant chain fern

Bromeliads should be watered every 7-14 days with enough water to fully moisten the media but not drench it. Watering frequency may need to be adjusted depending on the season, age of the plant, pot size, and potting mix. When watering, remember to empty the cup of any excess water at the top of the plant, as this can cause rotting and fungal diseases in the leaves. It is best to water bromeliads slowly so that the water can fully penetrate the potting media. Always use tepid water, not cold water.

Bromeliad plants (Vriesea spp.) require bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. They should be placed in an east-facing window or near a south-facing window for the most benefit. If placed in direct sunlight, they may get sunburned, causing the leaves to yellow or even burn off. For best results, bromeliads should receive 4 to 6 hours of bright or indirect sunlight each day, from morning until mid-afternoon. They can also tolerate shade for part of the day, particularly in warmer climates. Being semi-tropical plants, these plants also enjoy warm temperatures, between 65-90F (18-32C), and high humidity of around 60 to 80 percent.

Pruning for bromeliads (Vriesea spp.) should be done every 1 to 2 years, depending on the species. Pruning should generally be done by removing or cutting any old or dead leaves or flower stalks. In general, the amount of pruning required varies from very little (with some species) to considerable (with others). In rare cases, where the plant is severely overgrown, it may be necessary to cut back as far as the ground to encourage new growth.