Your bromeliad 'tala' care guide
Known for their vibrant-toned bracts (that’s the ‘bloom’ on the top), plants don’t get much more unique or striking than the bromeliad. The bract on the 'tala' variety has a slightly more rounded shape. But it isn’t any less colourful. Bromeliads are native to the rainforests of South America, so they’re guaranteed to bring a tropical touch to your home.
How to care for a bromeliad
Pop it in partially-bright spot
Bromeliads love bright, indirect light. Place your plant in a spot where it gets plenty of light. But avoid direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. In front of east or west-facing windows works best. Or even a few feet away from a south-facing window.
Give it a weekly drink, but be careful…
Bromeliads have unique water needs.
Instead of focusing on the soil, water its “tank” (the cup at the base of its leaves). You’ll need to make sure this is constantly full, but don’t let it sit there for longer than a week. Tip the old water out before refreshing it.
Every month or so (particularly when it’s hot), give the soil a light watering. Don’t allow it to get too soggy though – bromeliads take in most of their water through the tank.
Make sure it gets enough humidity
Bromeliads are used to the weather of rainforests – a place that’s a lot more humid than your home. You can up the humidity by misting your plant regularly. Not sure you’ll remember? (Don’t worry, we get it.) Use a pebble tray with water or humidifier instead.
Feed it every 4-6 weeks
Your bromeliad will be happy with a feed every month or so during growing season (March to September). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertiliser and pour the diluted mixture into the plant’s tank.
What are the signs of an unhappy bromeliad?
Brown leaf tips
This is often a sign of low humidity or over-fertilising. Follow the tips above to find out the best ways to up the humidity. And try to keep your plant on a strict monthly fertiliser schedule during spring and summer.
Yellow leaves
You may be overwatering your bromeliad. Remember, they get most of their water needs through their tank. The soil only really needs a sprinkle when the weather’s been warm – and even then, once a month is plenty.
Do I need to repot my bromeliad?
Because bromeliads are relatively slow growers, they don't need frequent repotting. Only move yours to a new home when it’s outgrown its original pot (you’ll notice roots peeking out the bottom).
The best time to repot a bromeliad is during growing season (spring or early summer).
1. Choose a pot with drainage holes that are slightly larger than the current one. Then fill the bottom of the pot with a layer of well-draining potting mix.
2. Remove your bromeliad from its original pot by gently tipping it on its side and carefully sliding it out. If it’s being stubborn, gently squeeze the sides of the pot.
3. Pop your plant in the centre of the new pot and fill around its roots with the new potting mix, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
4. Finish by lightly watering the soil and the bromeliad’s tank.