Tillandsias and Succulents are a good choice for houseplants. They are low maintenance, easy to care for and attractive. They are grown mainly for their foliage but some of them also have pretty flowers. 

Tillandsias (also known as air plants) get their nutrients and moisture from the air around them. In nature they can be found growing along tree branches, rocks or other surfaces. They do not require any soil. In the garden centre they are available as single plants that can be attached to almost any surface with just a dab of glue with a glue gun. They can also be placed in objects such as terrariums vases, jars etc.

When grown indoors as a houseplant, place them in an area where they will receive lots of bright indirect light. Plants are given moisture by either misting them, running them under a tap, or taking them out of their container and soaking the plant in water for a few minutes.

Succulents come in a wide range of colour, size, texture, and shape. They like lots of bright light, average house temperatures, and very little water. It is important that succulents are not overwatered. They prefer to be on the dry side. Succulents store their water in their foliage, stems or roots, which is why it is important not to overwater.

During the spring/summer when plants are actively growing,they can be watered more often than over the winter months when plants go dormant. In the growing period water the plants thoroughly when the soil surface becomes dry. Over the winter months succulents may only need to be watered every 2-4 weeks depending on the environment.

Both succulents and tillandsias are becoming quite trendy and there are unique ways of displaying the plants, especially if space is limited. At the garden centre we are always looking for new and unique things and we found a company that has found an attractive way for displaying these beautiful plants. Small plants that are 5-10 cm in size are placed in ‘air pendants’ which are small hanging containers that can be placed in windows, or hanging from walls or ceilings. The containers come in a variety of styles and colours including clear glass containers. The plants are also available in magnet pots, which are small sized ceramic containers with a magnet attached to it, making them easy to display. These plants are also available in small, unique table top containers that are perfect for small window sills or other small spaces.

These would make great gifts for the plant enthusiast or if you want to add some living colour to your home or office. 

-Jos 

Jos van Hage owns and operates two Art Knapp Home and Garden Centres in Prince George

• Highway 16 west at Kimball Road,

• Highway 97 north at Northwood Pulpmill Road