How Do You Propagate Tillandsia?
Tillandsia is an epiphyte found in the humid climates of the southern United States and Central and South America. You may have noticed the best known tillandsia, known as Spanish moss, living up in the branches of trees and covering them like “fur.” These plants are different from most in that their roots serve to anchor them in place rather than to gather water and nutrients. They get these vital elements from fog, humidity, dust, leaves and debris. They do not steal nutrients or moisture from the trees to which they are attached, so if you like their interesting look and live in an area where freezing is not an issue, then you may want to propagate some of your own. Separate tillandsia offsets that are about one-third the size of the mother plant by using a clean, sharp knife or some pruning shears. Determine the locations for the tillandsia you will propagate. Avoid areas where water gathers to prevent rotting, and pick a location that gets plenty of light and air. Trim off the lon
