How to Split Tillandsia

Tillandsia plants, often referred to air plants, are known for their ability to grow just about anywhere. These plants take in all water and nutrients through their leaves, so they don't need to establish a root system to successfully grow; this means they can sprout and thrive without the assistance of soil. Tillandsia plants reproduce by growing "pups," or young tillandsia growths that spring from the main plant. You can control the growth of tillandsia by splitting these pups and strategically placing them to sprout on their own.

Garden gloves

Pruning shears

Thread or string

Water bottle

Observe your tillandsia plant as it begins to grow. As it grows, you will see two to eight pups begin to appear across the plant. Wait until the pups are at least 1 inch big; it is easier to split tillandsia if you wait until the pups are about half the size of the mother.

Wear garden gloves when working with plants. Use pruning shears to clip the pups off at the base, where they connect to the main plant.

Gently pull the pup away from the mother plant; you may see substrates (like strings) that attach the pup to the mother or to the growing medium (ground, sand, tree, so on.).

Place the pup in the area in which you want it to grow. Tie the pup to the new area to give it time to establish new substrates in the new area.

Gently spritz the pup with water until it is wet but not soaking. This will encourage the pup to begin to grow.

Keep watch on the pups as well as the mother. Water thoroughly to the point of runoff any time the plant has dried out. Do not water the plant if it is already wet or if you are expecting rain.

If you grow tillandsia indoors, keep it no more than 10 feet from a window or skylight so it receives adequate light.

Do not plant the new pup in direct sunlight; intense heat and light can kill the young plant.