Air plants are amazing little plants that don't need soil to grow, making them super easy to care for! They are tropical plants that include varieties like tillandsia, xerographica, and aeriums.

Instead of dirt, they love to be placed on dry surfaces like rocks or hooks. This helps them stay healthy by preventing them from soaking up too much moisture. So, how exactly do you water these unique plants to make sure they stay happy and thriving? Here's everything you need to know!

Misting: The Best Way to Water Air Plants

The easiest and most common way to water air plants is by misting. All you need is a spray bottle set to a fine mist. Use rainwater or water that's free of chlorine for the best results.

How Often to Water Your Air Plants

Air plants naturally grow in warm, humid places, so if you're keeping them inside, it's important to mimic their environment. Depending on how humid it is in your house, you might need to water them regularly.

• If you're using misting, water them a little more often.

• If you prefer to submerge them in water (more on that later), you can do it less often, as this method lets the plants absorb more water in one go.

In general, try watering your air plants once a week or every 7 to 10 days.

Two Ways to Water Air Plants

There are two ways to water your air plants: misting and submersion. Both are effective, but you can choose the one that works best for you.

1. Submersion Method – Let Them Soak It Up!

This method mimics the heavy rainstorms that air plants enjoy in the wild. Here's how to do it:

• Start by trimming off any dead or damaged parts of your plant.

• Fill a bowl with spring or distilled water (or let tap water sit for about an hour to let the chemicals dissipate).

• Submerge the plant's leaves in the water for a few minutes.

• After soaking, shake off any extra water.

• Place the plant on a towel and let it dry completely for a few hours before putting it back in its spot.

2. Misting Method – A Quick and Easy Spray

Misting is perfect for when you're short on time. Here's how:

• Fill a spray bottle with spring or distilled water.

• Hold your air plant by the base or hang it somewhere accessible.

• Spray the leaves, making sure to reach both the tops and the undersides.

• If you're using a spray bottle with different settings, choose the fine mist option for the best coverage.

How to Tell if Your Air Plant Needs More Water

Air plants don't have soil to check for moisture, so it can be tricky to know when they need water. But there are a few signs to watch for:

Signs Your Air Plant Needs More Water

1. Dull, Wrinkled Leaves – If the leaves are looking sad and wrinkly, they probably need a drink. Healthy air plant leaves are usually plump and vibrant.

2. Brown, Crispy Tips – If the tips of the leaves are turning brown and crispy, it's a clear sign they need more water.

3. Droopy Leaves – If the leaves are starting to droop or look flat, they might be thirsty!

Signs You're Overwatering Your Air Plants

It's easy to go overboard with watering, but that's the quickest way to harm your plants. Here are signs of overwatering:

1. Soft, Mushy Roots – If the roots feel mushy or squishy, they're rotting. You might be able to trim the bad parts, but it's usually too late to save the plant if the entire base is mushy.

2. Yellowing Leaves – Too much water can cause the leaves to turn yellow. If this happens, cut back on watering and give them a chance to dry out.

3. Blackened, Falling Apart Base – If the base of your air plant is turning black and breaking apart, it's a sign that the plant is too soggy and the roots are rotting.